A Taste of Lawrence

 Stardate 10.23.2026

Some days at work become stories worth telling because of the people we meet along the way.

My assignment in Lawrence, Kansas, has given me plenty of opportunities to discover what makes a community special. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to experience that spirit at a local event celebrating Lawrence and the people, businesses, and organizations that serve its residents.

Before leaving for the event, I had an interesting encounter at our new location. A member recognized my voice from a YouTube Short connected to my blog story about Q39. The member knew my voice without seeing my face. I was shocked to discover that my story was reaching people throughout the community.

Once I arrived at the event, I found myself surrounded by people eager to participate, learn, and connect. The atmosphere was lively, and the booths offered a window into the many ways people contribute to their community.

The Lawrence mayor and Bonnie were among those who engaged with us at our booth. It was encouraging to see people take an interest in what we were doing. Conversations like these help build relationships, and relationships are an important part of making a new location feel connected to the community it serves.

There was plenty happening around our booth, too. Q39, the popular barbecue restaurant whose food I had recently reviewed, was right beside us. Their presence drew people to the area, and the team and I had an opportunity to reconnect with the people behind the food.

The Q39 team thanked us, and we talked about a possible celebration involving approximately 24 people before we return to our home locations after completing our mission. I enjoy seeing how a simple conversation can open the door to another opportunity to bring people together.

Across from our booth, another attraction caught my attention.

Meet Dash, the Robot Dog

Dash belongs to the Lawrence Police Department, which purchased the robot for $5,000. Officer Megan was there to demonstrate Dash's capabilities, using a remote control to show visitors how the robot operates.

Dash was interacting with visitors, attracting attention and helping Megan educate the public about the technology law enforcement can use in difficult situations.

What I found especially interesting was learning that Dash has a female companion robot. My impression was that the female robot resembles a Borg ship from Star Trek. That description certainly caught my attention!

The two robots can work together in hostage situations and other dangerous incidents. The companion robot has the ability to break windows to help gain entry into a scene. These capabilities can help officers assess and respond to situations where approaching directly could expose them to serious danger.

Think about the possibilities. When officers face a hostage situation or a murder-suicide scene, the risks can be considerable. Having robotic equipment that can assist in these circumstances may help limit human exposure while giving law enforcement additional ways to evaluate what is happening.

Dash's role at the event was educational, too. Megan was giving members of the public an opportunity to see the technology firsthand and learn how it can be used in the field.

I appreciated the opportunity to learn something new. Behind a robot dog that might initially look like a novelty is a practical application of technology intended to help people working in difficult and potentially dangerous circumstances.

And there I was, standing at a community event, learning about police robotics while representing our own team. You never know what you'll discover when you take the time to talk with people.

That is one of the things I enjoy about storytelling. A conversation that might otherwise last only a few minutes can become a way to share someone else's work, introduce readers to something unfamiliar, and recognize the people who serve their communities.

I also had opportunities to capture photographs and short videos. My growing interest in YouTube Shorts is teaching me to look for these moments as they happen. A short conversation can preserve a person's voice, enthusiasm, and knowledge in a way that complements the written story.

I am learning to see the world through a storyteller's eyes, one encounter at a time.

The event reminded me that a community is made up of many different kinds of people doing many different kinds of work. Some serve through food and hospitality. Others build relationships through local businesses and community organizations. Still others use technology to help protect the public.

Each has a story worth hearing.

As I continue my assignment in Lawrence, I am grateful for the opportunities to meet people, learn from them, and share what I discover. I arrived here to help a team prepare for an important opening. Along the way, I am finding lessons and stories that extend well beyond the workplace.

Sometimes the best part of an assignment is what happens between the scheduled tasks.

And sometimes, it is a robot dog named Dash.

A Scripture for the Journey

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Every conversation, every act of service, and every effort to help another person contributes something worthwhile. We may not always see the results immediately, but we can keep showing up, doing our part, and looking for opportunities to encourage others.

That is a lesson I want to carry with me, one day at a time.

An Invitation to Join Me

If you enjoy these stories about faith, everyday experiences, and the good that people bring into the world, I invite you to join me on Substack.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Captain's Addendum

Spock: “Michael, an interesting day indeed. Even a robotic dog can teach us something about service.”

Bones: “Just don't tell me you're going to recruit one for the next team meeting, Michael.”

Spock: “I would consider that a logical possibility, Doctor.”

Michael's Reflection

I am learning that being a storyteller begins with being willing to pay attention. I don't have to manufacture a meaningful moment. I can listen, ask questions, and give people the space to share what they know.

My encounter with the member who recognized my voice was a reminder that stories can travel farther than we realize. A blog post can become a video, a video can start a conversation, and that conversation can lead to another story worth sharing.

My prayer is that I continue to recognize these opportunities and use my words and videos to help others see the good happening around them.

One day at a time. One story at a time. And always grateful for another mulligan when I need one.

One Week to Go

Stardate 10.22.2026

We open our Lawrence location one week from today. The new team is doing well, and members are flocking to join. As launch day approaches, I'm doing my best to manage my stress while helping prepare the team for opening day.

My last two days off included 5.5 hours of indoor pickleball and two consecutive evening swimming sessions. My sleep and energy scores are slowly returning to their normal ranges, even after an extended period away from home. I'm thankful for that progress.

Yesterday, I had to rearrange my schedule because my new pickleball friends urged me to keep playing. We were having so much fun that nobody seemed ready to call it a day.

Here's the deal with pickleball when you're on the road. You show up during open play, place your paddle in the queue according to when you arrived, wait for an open court, and play. Win and stay on the court. Lose, and you can take a break or put your paddle back in the stack. You come and go as you please.

I was shocked when I realized I'd played for three hours. It felt as though I was just getting started!

There's something wonderful about walking into a facility where you may not know anyone, putting your paddle in the queue, and meeting people through the game. Before long, you're sharing laughs, competing, and making new friends. A few hours can pass before you realize how much time has gone by.

We all need social time. Perhaps that's one reason pickleball is exploding in popularity. It brings people together through a shared activity, and friendships develop naturally along the way.

I'm thankful the Pickleball Iowa County team is working so hard to bring outdoor pickleball to our community. The courts are under construction, and I can't wait to see the progress when I get home.

My extended pickleball session meant changing my plans for swimming. I had intended to head straight to the aquatic center after playing, but I didn't realize the pool closed at 12:45 p.m. I had missed the window.

That meant returning after dinner.

By the time dinner was over, I was tempted to skip swimming. I'd already played for three hours, and relaxing for the evening sounded appealing. I thought about my commitment and headed back to the aquatic center for another 30-minute swim.

That was punch number four on my ten-visit swim card.

I was pleased to discover that swimming after dinner didn't prevent me from getting a good night's sleep. My sleep score came in at 82, and my energy score this morning was 79. Those numbers are encouraging as I continue adjusting to life away from home.

Today will be a rest day from pickleball and swimming. My body has put in a good amount of work over the past two days, and recovery deserves a place in the schedule.

Even with a full plate at work, I'm finding time to learn how to make better videos. This is a skill I want to continue developing as I transition from working toward retirement. I'm learning one video at a time, just as I continue learning from each new experience.

The mission clock is ticking. Three years and eight months to go.

I believe I'll continue finding stories as long as I'm healthy enough to travel, have new experiences, and meet people. Every new place offers opportunities to learn something and connect with someone. Yesterday, three hours on a pickleball court gave me a few more friendships and another story to share.

Scripture reminds me:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

I'm thankful for the people I've met during this assignment, the team preparing for launch, and the opportunities to keep learning while I'm away from home.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your decision to return to the pool demonstrates commendable consistency. Your body may now submit a request for a slightly quieter day.

Bones: For once, Spock, I agree with the man. Three hours of pickleball and a swim? Give those muscles a little peace, Michael.

Spock: I believe that is precisely his plan, Doctor.

I'm learning to appreciate the unexpected turns in an ordinary day. Yesterday, I stayed on the court because I was enjoying the company. Later, I returned to the pool and completed my swim. Today, I'll give my body time to recover while preparing for another day at work.

There's still a store to open, a team to support, and a video or two to learn how to make.

One day at a time.

Live long and prosper.

---

Captain's Note:

“Our calling is not to write perfect words, but to reveal perfect grace through imperfect moments—one percent better, one day at a time.”

A Side of Stories with My Barbecue

 Stardate 10.21.2026

Yesterday was one of those days when a little flexibility opened the door to an unexpected experience.

The weather reached 73 degrees, and I was enjoying shorts and sandals. My day off had room for pickleball, swimming, and dinner with colleagues. I have been working to establish familiar routines while away from home, and these simple activities are helping me enjoy the journey.

Dinner brought us to Q39, a barbecue restaurant with a sign that caught my attention:

Championship Barbecue. Chef Driven. Always Pit to Plate.

We arrived around 4:30 p.m. I had hoped to see Sam, the server I met during an earlier visit, but her shift didn't begin until 5:00. We decided to sit down and eat.

That decision introduced us to Zander.

An Appetizer Worth Sharing

One of the appetizers caught our attention. Thick-cut fries were covered with burnt ends, melted cheese, and other toppings. It was a hearty dish, and I took a photograph to share with my readers.

There was an opportunity to do something else with the visit. Zander agreed to participate in a YouTube Short, giving me another chance to practice capturing the people and experiences I encounter during my travels.

I am grateful when someone is willing to take a few moments to share a story on camera. Every conversation helps me become more comfortable with the process.

Fifteen Seconds at a Time

For more than seventeen years, I have published a daily blog about the good Jesus is doing in my life. Thousands of stories have accumulated along the way, each preserving a little piece of my journey.

Now I am learning to bring those stories to life through video.

My earlier YouTube Shorts featuring Sam and members of the Q39 kitchen team have given me valuable practice. Yesterday's conversation with Zander continued that learning process.

Each Short gives me another opportunity to ask a question, listen carefully, and introduce viewers to someone they might enjoy meeting.

I am taking this one step at a time. There are skills to develop, technical details to learn, and plenty of opportunities to improve. I can work on those things as I go.

The daily blog remains my foundation. Video is opening another door.

A Day with Room to Breathe

The rest of the day offered its own rewards. Pickleball gave me exercise and time with other players. Swimming provided an opportunity to return to the water and continue rebuilding a routine I value.

The weather made it especially pleasant to be outside between activities. Dinner with colleagues gave us time to enjoy a good meal and conversation.

I am thankful for the freedom to make the most of a day off. There is something satisfying about allowing a day to unfold while staying open to the opportunities that come along.

The photograph of the appetizer will preserve the meal. The Short will preserve a conversation. And today's blog will keep the experience alive for readers who join me on this journey.

A Scripture for the Journey

Galatians 6:9 encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, reminding us that there is a harvest in due season if we do not give up.

That verse speaks to the daily work of writing and the new adventure of vlogging. Progress comes through continued effort. I can keep showing up, learning from each experience, and improving a little every day.

I am thankful for the people who give me a chance to practice, for the experiences that become stories, and for the good Jesus continues to place along my path.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your mission to document everyday life now includes an expanding collection of video recordings.

Bones: Just make sure you leave enough time to enjoy the barbecue, Michael. A fellow can't live on camera practice alone.

Spock: An entirely reasonable observation, Doctor.

I am learning as I go, one conversation and one day at a time. Yesterday gave me another chance to practice, and I am grateful I took it.

Live long and prosper.

Mulligan out.

Fifteen Seconds at a Time

 Stardate 10.20.2026 

Yesterday was a good day for learning. I published one of my best stories yet, and getting the vlog finished took considerable effort. Fortunately, I had a later start to my workday, which gave me enough time to complete the story and publish it without feeling rushed.

I appreciated having that extra time. I could concentrate on the work and enjoy the process.

Lately, I've been spending more time learning how to create YouTube Shorts. Fifteen seconds might not seem like much time to tell a story, but those short clips are teaching me a great deal about vlogging.

There is planning involved, especially when another person is part of the story. I need to coordinate with the person I'm interviewing, think about the moments I want to capture, and be ready when something interesting happens. People have their own schedules, and I want them to feel comfortable participating.

I'm learning as I go.

One of the most interesting discoveries has been the value of building a library of YouTube Shorts. Each clip gives me another piece of material I can use to enhance my storytelling. A brief conversation, an introduction to someone I've met, or a moment worth preserving can add a personal dimension to a written story.

I'm beginning to see how these pieces can work together.

My daily blog has been part of my life for many years. Now I'm learning to bring some of those stories to life through video. The skills I've developed as a writer give me a foundation, and the video work is teaching me new ways to share the experiences that matter to me.

There is plenty of work ahead. I'm genuinely satisfied with the progress I've made, and I'm enjoying the learning process. That combination keeps me motivated.

As I become more comfortable creating short clips, I can gradually expand into longer video sessions. I expect the process to evolve naturally as my experience grows. I can build on what I'm learning now without having to change everything at once.

Fifteen seconds at a time is a good place to start.

Today's plan calls for pickleball and swimming. I may attempt a few more YouTube Shorts if the right moments present themselves. I don't know whether an opportunity will arise, but I'm learning to recognize the possibilities when they do.

For now, I'm enjoying the chance to develop a new skill. There is something satisfying about being a student again, working through the challenges, and discovering that yesterday's difficult task becomes a little easier with practice.

One percent better, one day at a time.

A Little Encouragement

Proverbs 16:3 offers a fitting reminder:

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

I can make plans, prepare for an interview, and work to improve my videos. The results will come through patience, practice, and a willingness to keep learning. I'll do my part and trust Jesus with the rest.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael's collection of fifteen-second videos is developing into a useful storytelling resource. His learning curve appears to be heading in a promising direction.

Bones: That's encouraging, Spock. Just make sure he remembers to put the camera down long enough to enjoy his pickleball game and get in the pool!

Michael's Reflection: I'm grateful for the opportunity to keep learning. Yesterday's work showed me how much I can accomplish when I give myself the time to do it well. Today brings another chance to practice, whether I'm holding a camera, carrying a pickleball paddle, or swimming a few laps. I have a lot left to learn, and I'm looking forward to it.

Live long and prosper. 🖖

Sam the Food Server Inspires Restaurant Review of Q39

Stardate 10.19.2026

She had me at hello.

I walked into Q39 after numerous people in the local community insisted I give this restaurant a try. Their recommendations finally convinced me to visit.

There is always an awkward moment when I walk into a restaurant to dine alone. The hosts naturally point toward the bar area, where solo diners can find a seat. Last night, I was greeted by Sam.

I told her this was my first visit. She welcomed me and seated me in the center of the dining area. When I asked who would be serving me, she smiled and replied, “Me.”

That was my introduction to Sam, and it set the tone for the entire evening.

Perhaps the extensive training she received contributed to her approach. I suspect her natural personality deserves plenty of credit, too.

A Ribeye and a Conversation

I had already decided what I wanted after looking at the online menu. I was planning to order a Kansas City steak but I couldn't find it on the menu Sam brought to my table.

Sam explained that the restaurant was changing its menu as the season changed. Much to my surprise, my favorite cut, the ribeye, was featured on the new menu.

She explained why the ribeye is a favorite, even though it is available only during certain seasons. She also shared information about the restaurant's commitment to local ingredients and the ten-step certification process the Angus beef undergoes.

I wanted to know more, and Sam was happy to share.

Our conversation turned to the training she received to become proficient at her craft. I was curious about the time invested in preparing employees to serve customers properly.

That curiosity would become an important part of my evening.

When Dinner Became an Experience

I was surprised when Josh, the manager on duty, accompanied another server to my table with my food.

My oh my.

If they happen to serve food in Heaven, this is it.

The presentation was wonderful, and the meal lived up to the anticipation. I was enjoying every bite.

I asked Sam if she would be willing to appear in a YouTube Short for a restaurant review I was planning to write.

She lit up.

Her enthusiasm was contagious. I had been writing daily stories for years, and I was discovering new ways to share the people and experiences that make life special. Sam's response gave me the spark to capture this visit on video.

Moments later, Zach, the chef, approached my table, introduced himself, and offered me a tour of the kitchen.

I was beside myself with joy.

The evening was unfolding in ways I never anticipated. I had arrived because people in the community recommended Q39. Sam's enthusiasm inspired me to record a video, and now Zach was inviting me behind the scenes.

Sam returned to check on me and share more about the family behind the restaurant. She asked me to turn around and look at the trophy case I hadn't even noticed when I walked in.

There they were: awards recognizing Q39's achievements in national barbecue competitions.

Sam explained that the trophies displayed at this location were unique to this restaurant. The collection was not duplicated at the other three locations.

I had come to appreciate the food. Now I was learning about the people and the history behind it.

One Man's Vision Becomes a Family Legacy

The founder, Rob Magee, had a vision. He dreamed big and worked to turn that dream into reality.

Kansas City has long been famous for its barbecue. Rob built a place for himself in that proud tradition.

Today, four restaurants serve customers, and the business has earned hundreds of national awards, including grand-prize honors and prize money.

A dream became a business, and that business became a family legacy.

Collin, Rob's son, joined me at my table and shared stories about his family. He told me about a barbecue competition he entered while still in grade school. His father coached him step by step, helping him earn a third-place trophy.

A photograph of father and son hangs on the walls of Q39, with the younger Collin wearing a chef's hat. I took a photograph to capture Collin alongside the image of his proud father.

That childhood trophy carries a special meaning. It represents a father who invested his time in teaching his son, sharing his knowledge, and helping him discover what he could accomplish.

Rob's influence remains visible throughout the restaurants.

The family's story continues today, with Collin's mother, Kelly Magee, at the helm. Rob's legacy lives on throughout all four restaurants in the Kansas City and Lawrence areas, a lasting reminder of the vision he brought to life.

The Secret Sauce Is in the Details

One thing Sam shared with me has stayed with me: the time and attention invested in training new employees.

At Q39, training is a priority. The restaurant invests in helping new hires learn their responsibilities and understand the standards expected of them.

That investment matters.

A restaurant can serve exceptional food, but the people who welcome guests, answer questions, explain the menu, and deliver the meal help shape the entire experience.

Sam demonstrated that from the moment I walked through the door.

Her enthusiasm encouraged me to ask questions. Those questions led to conversations about the food, the kitchen, the family, and the training that supports the restaurant's service.

The secret sauce is in the details.

I see a connection to what I have been learning during my away mission. Whether we're training a new employee, welcoming a customer, or building relationships in a community, the details matter. People remember how we make them feel.

The same principle applies to storytelling.

I could have written about any number of exceptional restaurants. The community recommendations brought me to Q39, and Sam's welcome inspired me to tell this story.

Before the evening was over, I had recorded YouTube Shorts featuring Sam and Zach. Sam even scanned my QR code so she could read the story when it was published.

I love that she will have an opportunity to see how her enthusiasm inspired me to share the experience with others.

A Place I'll Visit Again

Q39 has earned a place on my list of restaurants to revisit before my time on assignment comes to an end.

When my wife visits, this is one of the places I want to take her.

I look forward to sharing the food, introducing her to a place the local community encouraged me to discover, and telling her about the people I met along the way.

If you're looking for a memorable restaurant experience in the Kansas City or Lawrence area, put Q39 on your list. Make a reservation, give yourself time to enjoy the meal, and take a moment to appreciate the people who make the experience special.

Your taste buds will thank you.

I arrived at Q39 because people in the community recommended it. I left with a wonderful meal, new connections, and a story I was excited to share.

Sometimes, a simple welcome is all it takes to get a good story started.

Thank you, Sam, Zach, Josh, Collin, Timm, Kelly, and the Q39 team for an evening I never expected and won't soon forget.

---

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

Sam's enthusiasm, Zach's invitation to see the kitchen, and the care invested in training the team reminded me how much our work can mean to others. We may never know when a small act of kindness will encourage someone to share a story that reaches far beyond the moment.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, the evidence suggests that the restaurant's hospitality made a significant impression on you.

Bones: And he managed to turn dinner into a video production. I'm beginning to think the man can't eat a meal without finding a story.

Spock: An intriguing talent, Doctor. His next mission may require a larger memory card.

I have spent years looking for stories in the everyday moments of life. Last night reminded me that the people we meet can give us something wonderful to share. I'm grateful the community pointed me toward Q39, and I'm especially grateful Sam made me feel welcome enough to ask questions, start recording, and discover a family story I might otherwise have missed.

One person, one conversation, one story at a time.

One percent better, one day at a time.

Whose Image Do We Carry?

 Stardate 10.18.2026

Some days begin with a little unexpected exercise.

Saturday morning, I was getting ready to leave my hotel for an early morning haircut when I discovered the windows on my rental van were frozen. I could have waited for them to de-ice. A 0.4-mile walk seemed like a better plan.

So I jumped out of my van and began walking.

That short walk set the tone for a high-energy day. I arrived just after the doors were opened and enjoyed a great visit with Domonique, the store manager. During our conversation, I discovered she was good friends with Amanda, the store manager who had cut my hair during my previous assignment in Lee's Summit.

Small world.

I also shared a story about how her franchise had helped me make an important decision concerning a vaccine offered during COVID-19. It was a meaningful conversation, and I left looking forward to my day off.

Back at the hotel, I got my laundry done and headed to the indoor pool. I worked on some practice footage for YouTube Shorts, experimenting with ways to capture video while swimming and filming from the poolside.

There is something satisfying about learning a little more each time I try something new. The progress may be small, but it keeps me moving forward.

Later, I went to worship at a church I had never attended before. My usual church was closed for fall break, so I had an opportunity to experience a different congregation.

The homily stayed with me.

The pastor spoke about a group of religious leaders who came together to challenge Jesus. These were people who disagreed with one another on plenty of things. For this moment, however, they shared a common purpose. They wanted to trap Him.

As a Star Trek fan, I thought of the Kobayashi Maru, the famous no-win scenario designed to test a Starfleet officer. The leaders believed they had put Jesus in a similar position.

Their question concerned paying taxes to Caesar.

Jesus asked them whose image appeared on the denarius. They answered that it was Caesar's. He responded with the familiar words about giving Caesar what belonged to Caesar and giving God what belonged to God.

I had heard that passage many times.

Then the pastor took us back to Genesis.

Scripture tells us that God created human beings in His own image. The pastor invited us to consider what that meant for the question Jesus had asked about the image on the coin.

The coin bore Caesar's image.

We bear God's image.

Suddenly, the familiar passage carried a deeper meaning for me. The question reached beyond the coin and the tax. It invited me to consider my own identity and to whom I belong.

I left church with that thought on my mind.

The day continued with dinner alongside a colleague. Eventually, I returned to my hotel, grateful for a day that had included a good walk, a meaningful haircut appointment, laundry, progress on a creative project, time in the pool, and a new perspective on Scripture.

Before going to sleep, I had plenty to be thankful for.

Genesis 1:27 reminds us that God created humankind in His image. That truth has been present since the beginning of the biblical story. Sometimes, hearing a familiar passage through another person's eyes helps us see something we have overlooked.

Perhaps that is one of the gifts of making room for new experiences. We meet new people, hear familiar stories, and discover another layer of meaning.

And we are reminded of whose image we carry.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, the evidence suggests that your Saturday included a successful away mission and a significant theological discovery.

Bones: Spock, he went for a haircut, swam in a pool, and went to church. Must you turn everything into a mission report?

Spock: Doctor, the question of belonging is hardly a minor matter.

I've shared with a few friends why these two characters mean so much to me. Spock reminds me of my father, a man whose approach leaned toward logic and whose emotions were almost never on display. Bones reminds me of my mother, whose empathy comes through in the way she approaches people. The two characters frequently disagree, and their exchanges have always meant something a little deeper to me.

Maybe that's part of why I enjoy bringing them along on this journey. Their banter gives me a way to honor two people who helped shape my life, each with a different way of seeing the world.

And on Saturday, after hearing that we are created in God's image, I found myself thinking about all the people whose influence becomes part of who we are.

A Hero's Story

Stardate 10.17.2026

I sat at the bar last night with a legend.

CJ is so popular at Texas Roadhouse that his bar stool has his initials engraved on it. His portrait hangs above the bar. Every employee knows who he is.

This was my second time meeting him. The bar was full when I asked if I could sit next to him. He began telling me stories about the employees, and I listened carefully. CJ speaks softly, so I found myself leaning in to catch every word.

One of the employees approached him and mentioned that a birthday celebration was about to begin. I soon realized this was a familiar routine. Whenever the employees celebrated, CJ knew what was coming.

CJ is a Vietnam veteran who carries a gun. He once experienced a flashback during a particularly loud celebration and perceived a threat. The experience left a lasting impression on the people around him.

Last night, I watched CJ put his fingers in his ears as the noise began to rise. When the celebration ended, the bartender approached him and patted the bar to let him know everything was okay.

That small gesture stayed with me.

CJ later pulled out his cell phone and showed me a collection of photographs he had taken of current and former Texas Roadhouse employees. He knew their stories and enjoyed sharing them with me.

Among those photographs was Andrew, a 27-year-old entrepreneur who now owns the place where I eat many of my meals while away from home.

During our conversation, I spotted Kayla, our new general manager, sitting in the dining area. I thought it would be fun to arrange a little surprise.

I told Andrew about Kayla and asked if he would walk over, call her by name, and check on how she was doing.

Andrew agreed.

CJ and I watched from the bar as Andrew carried out the plan. I will remember that little stunt long after my assignment is complete.

There's something wonderful about watching people connect. A familiar face, a remembered name, or a simple question about how someone is doing can make an ordinary evening memorable.

CJ doesn't know I'm a writer. He has no idea that today's story is about him. I want people to see his picture and recognize a man whose service to our country is part of a much larger story.

Behind the engraved bar stool and the portrait above the bar is a person with memories and experiences that stay with him. The people at Texas Roadhouse know CJ. They have learned how to look out for him, and they make room for him in their daily lives.

Watching CJ interact with the people around him reminded me how much we can learn when we take the time to listen. Every person we meet carries a story we may never fully know.

May God bless CJ and all the people who surround him. Thank you, CJ, for your service to our country.

Psalm 23:4 reminds us that even when we walk through the darkest valley, we are not alone. Sometimes the reassurance we need arrives through the quiet kindness of another person.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your evening at the bar provided a valuable lesson in human connection.

Bones: I'll say, Spock. The man went out for dinner and came home with another story. I suppose that's what happens when you actually talk to people.

Spock: An effective way to expand one's understanding of humanity, Doctor.

Michael's Reflection

I am grateful for the people who cross my path and trust me with a little piece of their lives. I may never know their entire stories, but I can listen, show kindness, and remember their names.

Sometimes that is enough for one day.

Live long and prosper.