Applebee's Encounters

If I'm going to meet up with friends there's one place I'm likely to go.

Not entirely sure why, but for the past seven(ish) years, Applebee's has been the place to meet. Whether I saw that particular person last week or we haven't touched base in years -- either they or myself recommend it.

Even when I go by myself, which is healthy to do time-to-time, I'll bump into people I know.

Some of my favorite summer memories involve catching-up with old friends over sweet potato fries and strawberry shakes. Sometimes we forget those good times.

I know there are days when I just want it all to stop.

The stresses of life can overpower the joys, even the slightest bit of stress can get blown out of proportion. We need to constantly be on guard against our own minds -- if the brain isn't kept in check with reality, bigger-than-life problems will swarm in.

Whenever I'm feeling down, hopeless, worthless, I often flashback to times when people assured me that I'm none of those things. Should we rely on other people's opinions? Heck no. But we should be willing to listen to those around us, validating them for the people they are. Everyone has purpose, just some are slower are finding it, which is OK!

Besides the great service I've received at Bees, the company is second to none. One time I recall twenty of us got together for a late snack, laughing the night away while snapping pics to those who weren't present. It's those moments we NEED to remember.

I've also had some great heart to heart conversations while dining. Philosophy, religion, addiction, coping and more -- the down and gritty stuff is some of the realest talk I've had. When people open themselves up , it's trust, and trust is hard to find in the 21st Century. How trustworthy do you see your friends? How do you think your friends see you?

There is good in this world, Applebee's encounters are proof of this. So don't let the pains of life steal your joy; you're worth more than you can imagine.

I'm sitting here having forgotten to do my hair after showering. I can have two approaches:

1) Dangnabit! Now I have to re-wet my hair. Just one more thing for the to-do list...

2) Oops, silly Billy. Looks like I can try that new hair gel that's been sitting on my shelf. Today's gonna be great!

The cool thing is, we get to choose how we respond to life. Nothing's pulling our strings -- if we don't let it.