Last night, new U.S. President Barack Obama retook the oath of office after he and Chief Justice Roberts botched it at the inauguration. Their reason for doing so? According to a written statement from White House Counsel Greg Craig, it was simply the result of “an abundance of caution.”

Which apparently is new-administration code for “so the crazy Obama-haters don’t have any reason to start protesting that I’m not really the president.” Everyone knows that Obama became president Tuesday with or without the oath, and that the oath was administered effectively despite the garbled beginning. But they wanted to be safe.

Anyway, I love the “abundance of caution” reasoning.

In fact, I’m thinking “abundance of caution” will become a nationwide meme. Need to repeat something for no good reason? Now you have an excuse! For your edification and instruction, here are some practical uses of the phrase, divided into helpful categories.

Relationships:

Out of an abundance of caution, I’ve asked the minister to lead us once more in our wedding vows, just to make sure we’re really married. As you know, baby, that means this week is our honeymoon.

Entertainment:

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m going to need to watch last night’s episode of Lost again, honey. I may have missed something important.

Diet:

Out of an abundance of caution, I’d better eat another cookie. It’s too early to tell, but the first one may not end up being as satisfying as I’d hoped.

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m going to need another cup of double-chocolate mocha, in case the caffeine content wasn’t high-octane enough.

Childraising:

Out of an abundance of caution, Junior, I want you to get back in bed and go to sleep. It’s Saturday morning, after all, and who knows if you got enough rest last night?

Career:

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m going to ask my boss to hire me again. If that results in an accidentally doubled salary, I will not complain.

Religion:

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m inviting Jesus into my heart a second time. Better safe than sorry, especially when eternal damnation is concerned. (Evangelical)

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m getting baptized a second time. Better safe than sorry, especially when eternal damnation is concerned. (Liturgical)

Out of an abundance of caution, I’m attending mass a second time. Better safe than sorry, especially when eternal damnation is concerned. (Catholic)

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Your turn. What other experiences or decisions could be improved with an abundance of caution?