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Essay: "Second Chance"

by Maurice Ervin
I often told my daughters Ashley and Shalia that they didn't get second chances with me. I would not tolerate their behavior. I would ask them once and they had better make sure they listened and heeded my warning, because I would not give another one. I realize now that this was too rigid, no room for compromising or understanding, no flexibility.

Being in prison this time and finding God has taught me to be thankful for second chances. God gave me a second chance in life. I could have died or been strung out on drugs and lost my family, but God gave me a new beginning, a second chance to start fresh. He also gave me the tools to do so.

I'm very grateful that God has spared me. Even though I'm in prison, God is still showing me how to be productive with the time I have. There are things that I still must learn. Being in a therapeutic program that teaches cognitive restructuring is very helpful. It gives me a better opportunity to live a live a positive life.

So I'll take this second chance at life and live it wisely, gracefully, and thankfully. I'll also be more flexible with my daughters!