Ep 15. Activate Your Choices

Becker season 1 episode 15 titled "Activate Your Choices" begins with John Becker, played by Ted Danson, feeling nostalgic on his birthday as he reminisces about his childhood. He recalls the time when his mother gifted him a bike and spent the whole day trying to teach him how to ride it. Later, a patient named Mr. Parker comes to see Becker complaining of joint pains and difficulty in walking. Becker orders some tests and prescribes some medication while advising him to take better care of his health.

Meanwhile, Jake Malinak, played by Alex Désert, is struggling to find a date for Becker's birthday party, and despite various attempts, he fails to do so. Later, Reggie Kostas, played by Terry Farrell, the owner of the diner across the street, drops by Becker's office with some bakery goods as a birthday present. The two engage in some playful banter before she leaves, and Becker sees her off with a smile.

Becker's next patient is a teenage girl named Julie, who is brought in by her mother. Julie is experiencing some unusual symptoms, and Becker suspects that she might be pregnant. However, the pregnancy test comes out negative, and he orders some further tests to determine the cause. At the same time, Linda, played by Shawnee Smith, Becker's assistant, receives a call from her boyfriend who has been ignoring her lately due to his busy schedule. She pours her heart out to Becker, who advises her to have a conversation with him instead of jumping to conclusions.

Becker and Chris, played by Nancy Travis, later go to a party store to buy some decorations for his birthday party. In the store, Becker bumps into Reggie again, and they end up arguing about their different views on relationships and dating. But despite their differences, they also seem to be attracted to each other.

Back at the office, Julie's test results reveal that she has a high level of stress and anxiety due to academic pressures and her parents' expectations. Becker advises her to prioritize her mental well-being and make choices that work for her instead of succumbing to external pressures.

Later that night, Becker's birthday party begins, and everyone has a good time. However, Becker is disappointed that Reggie hasn't shown up and assumes that she has stood him up. But she eventually arrives with a unique gift for him, and the two share a private moment of bonding.

The episode ends with Becker reflecting on his day and the people he has met. He realizes that life is full of choices, and it's up to each person to activate their choices and live a fulfilling life.

Overall, "Activate Your Choices" is a poignant episode that deals with themes of self-care, external pressures, and relationships. It explores the different choices that people make in their lives and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one's own well-being. The episode also sets the stage for a potential romance between Becker and Reggie, which adds an exciting new dimension to the show.