On burning up.

Back when I lived in San Francsico, my apartment had a roof you could easily see both the Bay Bridge and The Golden Gate from. Given the amazing views, lots of us in the building kept grills up there for BBQ's.

One day, I went up there with my buddy Jason Stanfield to make some burgers, only to find my grill was gone! Not just my grill, but everybody's. I freaked out. I mean I really went nuts. I was so angry someone would take my stuff. I took it as a personal affront. Now, this was one of my big issues - taking things personally and ramping out of control. (Okay, those are two issues.)

Jason tried to explain that since everybody's was gone, having the grills up there probably violated a rule of the building. And, in any event, it was just a $40 grill, not worth getting all riled up about. I wasn't having any of that, and I eventually tired myself out with anger.

The next day, the landlady told us the Fire Marshall was doing an inspection, and she hid all our grills so the building wouldn't get ticketed. We were free to have them back now that the coast was clear. After that incident, Jason would use the word "grill" to remind me to stay calm and not let anger get the best of me. Especially when I may not have all the facts.

I'm now back in NYC, and the view from my living room window is the word "grill" in neon lights. It's a good constant reminder to not let the world get to me. Which is real easy to forget in a city like this. Thanks Jace.