Until I watched a few videos on painting tips, I never thought much about a second coat of paint unless I was covering up a dark wall with a lighter color. However, most advocate another coat for the best results. That’s what I did yesterday when I got to work on the entry doors and woodwork that gets the most wear and tear in the house.
A second go-over reveals little spots I missed. It shows what I should have filled in or sanded a little better. Since it’s the same color, it goes a lot quicker and leaves a smoother finish, too. It took me how many years to learn this?
What else better the second time around? Or maybe not as good. That’s where my thoughts went this morning.
How about that second cup of coffee? For me, the first is always the best. Freshly brewed is different than from a pot that’s been sitting for a bit. I find the first sips are the best, hot, steamy, and of course, black.
I’ve written before about guest preaching a second or third time at a church. What about those mornings worshiping at a different church? The sermon may or may not resonate. The liturgy may have been different than what you’re used to and took some effort to follow. Maybe special music that knocked your socks off the first time wasn’t there the next time. I would always attend a few times before forming an opinion. Every pastor has at least one good sermon in them, right?
Some people are gracious enough to give a restaurant a second chance. After a so-so meal with so-so service, I would be hesitant to go back. But maybe another entree brought by a different server would change my mind.
The first time I made sourdough bread left me with a dense, gooey loaf surrounded by a crust that almost bested my bread knife. My second attempt was much better, and each loaf continues to improve.
Meeting a person for the first time can be different than the second. A shy, aloof, rude, or serious person may be having a much better day the second time you talk to them. Give them a chance?
Going back through the buffet a second time? A little more of what you really liked the first time? Adding a few things you didn’t have room on your plate for last time? Of course.
How about a work of art? The first time, you liked it. The second time, something different caught your eye. A detail, a color, a flower. Definitely worth a second, longer look.
A second coat. A second time. A second chance.
