Practice makes perfect

 

Romans 12:9-10

Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle. (The Message)

The seconds occupy

a space inside 

usually sandwiched between

more vocal parts

Their role to enhance 

and amplify

all the beauty around

Contributing to the whole

in a nuanced, subtle way

Supporting

Bringing harmony

Interpreting another perspective

Providing a different insight

 Navigating tricky rhythms and intervals

The seconds bring depth

and focus

Occasionally coming to the fore

but mostly remaining hidden

Often overlooked

and underestimated

More noticed by their absence

than their presence

Their gifts and skills

may be misunderstood

deemed less than

by those who lack perception

A cost they are willing to bear

secure in their calling

not settling for less

but bringing more

And those who take the time

to affirm their gifts

and seek their accompaniment

are enriched by their giving

Caught up

and encircled

by a love that is fierce

in its passion

and clear in its mission:

To contribute to the creation

of something whole

and worthwhile

a thing of beauty

birthed in playful improvisation

delivered in wondrous accord.

The gift of second fiddle.