Choir Notes

Second Chances
From Music and the Spoken Word
Delivered By: Lloyd D. Newell . Program 3129

Among life's greatest blessings is the opportunity for second chances. A disobedient child says to his mother, "I promise I'll do better next time" and "Can I try again?" We've probably all felt that way from time to time—we fall short, and we long for another chance, a fresh start, a new beginning. And while justice and fairness always have their claim, mercy and second chances also have their place.

The theme of second chances is as old as time and abundant in literature and history. We're familiar with the s tory of the prodigal son who came home again; or the reluctant prophet Jonah, who got a second chance to overcome his fears. And we all haave personal and family stories to making mistakes but then trying anew.

Another story of second chances is the novel Silas Marner, by George Eliot. Because of a false accusation and a friend's betrayel, Silas becomes a recluse and miser, his heart "a locket casket,"1 whose only concern is his work and his hoard of money. When his precious gold is stolen, the loss drives Silas into a deeper gloom.

Then along comes a little girl, an orphan he namesw Eppie, who presents Silas with a chance at redemption, another life, a new hope for happiness. When Silas's thoughts turn to little Eppie's care and keeping, when his heart opens to her, he finds love and release from his bitterness and depression. Silas may have lost his gold, but he finds true joy in a golden-haired girl who gives him a reason for living, a second chance at life.

Believing and hoping for life's second chances gives us the confidence to live a life that, while not flawless, is dtermined; not perfect, but progressing.

1 (1922), 90.