Part 2

I think I learned a lot of things from my most recent work stint. I learned how to smile at strangers and make perfunctory banter. I learned that being a waiter is a mixed bag because you meet both friendly people and the most unbelievable jackasses.

I learned that I'm most effective with mothers, old people, people who are alone, and people who speak French (YES.). On the flip side, I learned that I'm not good at 'bro bro' banter, neither am I good at keeping up with boisterous people.

I learned not to take things so personally. Most of the time, anyway. Sometimes we're just out of control. Sometimes.

I learned that if you just open your mouth and ask, people might buy another round of drinks, or order a $100 bottle of wine, or even invite you to a table and give you free beer.

I learned that angels live among us, and some of them wait tables. I mean Daphne, of course. Okay I don't, but it doesn't mean you're not a good waitress, sister! HAHAHA.

Though I used to picture myself as someone opposed to 'superficial' social jokes, I came to realize that these kinds of set pieces are ways of letting people know that you understand where they come from.

I learned that I'm not particularly... refined in my people-reading skills.

Through Donah, I got to take a look at myself in the mirror... and I saw that I set low standards for myself, and maybe others too, by consequence.

I learned that if you ask God to be there for you, He will be there for you, even if you're not the son you ought to be, even if you've walked away for some time.