22 June | Youth

The Challenge of the Second

«The race is not always won by the swiftest, the battle is not always won by the strongest.» Ecclesiastes 9:11, NET

The party ends. Hangover. What else can today hold for us? Look carefully: the holiday is over, the last fireworks went off, the gifts have lost their charm and there aren't so many affectionate hugs anymore. All that was left was the credit card debt and the reheated food. Where are the promises, the glamour and the euphoria? Maybe they left at the first opportunity. We now have many “seconds” to go! While the first part of the year is emotion, the second is reason.

Many people don't like the word “second” because it seems to mean something inferior, second-rate. We rarely want second place, a silver medal or runner-up position. Walk the second mile? It almost becomes a penance. Mondays? No way! The second day of the week became the international day of second intentions. What about January 2? Nobody plans a life change on that date. In fact, reality is placed before us as it is, without a filter or mask.

But wait a minute! You have to remember that you are the one who makes your day! What defines your happiness and your destiny are the decisions you make along your journey. So, live every second wisely. Stay firm with your plans for this year. You are responsible for your future! And remember that it is choices, not conditions, that determine your destiny.

Let's speak the truth. The “second” isn’t always that bad. Sometimes silver medals taste like victory; reheated food tastes even better, and Monday can be the most exciting day of the week. It all depends on the way you look at things.

Maybe you get frustrated with always being a “sidekick,” a second on the podium of life. You are not the smartest in the class, the most interesting on the street and you have never been part of the school's main team. Do not lose hope! We are still on the second part of the year.

You need to understand that the fast don't always win the race and the strong don't always win the battles. If you put God first, everything will work out.

Know that the second part of the year is also important and that, if you enjoy every second of this year, you will have an unforgettable year.