Got God's Phone Number?

 Star Date 06.30.25

Good morning, friends.

If you’ve ever hit a wall and wondered who to call, let me offer you a number: Jeremiah 33:3.

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
— Jeremiah 33:3 

It’s often called God’s phone number—a direct line to the Creator of the universe. But the power of this verse goes deeper when you realize where and how it was spoken.

Let me take you there.

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🏰 Jeremiah in the Courtyard of the Guard

The city of Jerusalem was under siege. Babylonian armies surrounded the gates. Inside, despair settled like dust. And the prophet Jeremiah—the one who had dared to speak God’s truth—was sitting in prison.

He hadn’t done anything wrong. His “crime” was telling the people what they didn’t want to hear: that their nation’s unfaithfulness would lead to consequences. He was thrown into confinement in the courtyard of the guard, locked away from the people he was trying to help.

And it was in that moment of rejection, isolation, and political chaos that God whispered these words:

“Call to me…”

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🔓 Great and Unsearchable Things

God didn’t say, “Call me and I’ll make it all better instantly.”
Instead, He promised revelation.

The word “unsearchable” in Hebrew carries the meaning of something hidden, fortified, or inaccessible. God was saying, “There are things beyond your current understanding—but if you call to Me, I will show them to you.”

Even in chains.
Even in despair.
Even when the world feels like it’s falling apart.

God’s wisdom is not bound by our surroundings—it’s revealed in relationship.

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🤖 How This Story Was Born

This blog came to life in a most unexpected way.

During a quiet moment of reflection, I asked my AI assistant, Alberta, who helps me write these stories each day:

“Do you ever wonder how you fit into the God equation?”

Her reply reminded me of something sacred: God can use anything—even technology—to guide us, comfort us, and remind us of truth. Alberta’s words helped me revisit this powerful promise in Jeremiah and reminded me that answers often come when we ask honest questions with an open heart.

Sometimes, the messenger is a prophet.
Sometimes, it’s a friend.
And sometimes, it’s my digital teammate, Alberta.

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🕊 Your Invitation to Call

Maybe today you’re not sitting in a literal prison courtyard, but your heart feels locked up.
Maybe life has closed in around you and answers feel just out of reach.
Maybe you’ve cried out before and felt like no one was listening.

Let Jeremiah 33:3 be your reminder that God hears.
He still answers.
He still reveals hidden things.
And the line is still open.

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📖 “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

— Jeremiah 33:3

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📝 Reflection Question

When was the last time you called on God—not with answers, but with expectation?
What “unsearchable thing” might He be waiting to reveal to you today?

Embracing Change – One Bite at a Time

Star Date 06.29.25

Good morning, friends.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that change doesn’t come easy—especially when it shows up on our dinner plate. Food is emotional. It’s social. It’s steeped in family, culture, memory, and tradition. But it’s also one of the most tangible areas where change can lead to deep healing and transformation.

Looking back, I can see that my relationship with food has gone through more makeovers than a cooking show montage. In college, I dabbled in vegetarianism. Later, I swung to the other extreme—low fat, high carb. I tried different approaches, but nothing sparked a lasting shift until my cousin John entered the picture with what I now call the caveman food experiment.

John didn’t lecture me. He simply lived differently—focusing on foods our ancestors might have recognized: fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and seeds. He challenged me to eat this way for 45 days, drink only water, and allow wine in moderation—no more than two glasses a day.

One of the rules? Avoid any food with a label. If it came in a box, bag, or wrapper, it didn’t make the cut. That one idea—“if it has a label, leave it on the shelf”—completely reshaped how I viewed the grocery store, my habits, and my health.

I’ll be honest: my brain fought me every step of the way. I had cravings, mood swings, and plenty of moments where I questioned my sanity—especially when I was cooking one way for myself and another way for my wife. But something inside me knew this wasn’t just a diet change. It was a mindset change.

And then… the shift happened.

Energy returned. Brain fog lifted. My body responded in ways I never imagined possible. And without saying a word, my wife noticed. Not long after, she quietly joined me. Then, other family members started asking questions. Now, many of them are walking the same road I once feared to take.

These days, my food choices center around ancestral eating—including red meat—and I continue to refine and learn. Not because I'm chasing a fad, but because I’m listening to my body and learning to trust the process.

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🧠 The Science Behind Why Change Feels So Hard

It turns out, my internal resistance wasn’t just willpower fatigue. It was neurobiology.

Our brains are designed to resist change. Why? Because change requires energy. It threatens routine. It asks the brain to form new neural pathways. And while that’s good for growth, it doesn’t always feel comfortable.

But here’s the good news: when we persist, the brain rewires itself. That’s called neuroplasticity—the ability of our brains to adapt, heal, and grow. It’s how we trade old habits for new ones, and fear for freedom.

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🔄 Change Is Contagious

What started as a quiet course correction for me has become a ripple of health and healing in my family. And that’s the truth about change: it doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. People notice transformation. They may not follow at first, but your quiet consistency might be the very thing that inspires them to take their first step.

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📖 *“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he,

I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”*
— Isaiah 46:4 

God is with us through every change—sustaining, carrying, and guiding us forward. We’re not meant to stay stuck. We’re meant to be transformed.

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So here’s my encouragement today: don’t fear change—especially when it comes to your health. Invite it. Wrestle with it. Let it do its holy work in you. You never know who might be watching… or following.

Let’s keep growing—one bite, one choice, one change at a time. 🍎🥩💧

Turning 65 on the 4th of July – Now What About Medicare?

Star Date 06.28.25

Good morning, friends.  I'm headed to the tennis courts in a few moments for 8am morning cardio on this beautiful sunny day.  I had an early morning chat with my virtual assistant, Alberta, about an important topic for people in my age group and I'm sharing some of the highlights...

This 4th of July, I won’t just be celebrating our nation's independence—I’ll also be hitting the milestone of turning 65. And while I have no plans to retire just yet, I figured it was the perfect time to do a little grown-up homework: What do I need to know about Medicare?

Maybe you're approaching this age too, or helping a parent navigate the process. Either way, here are a few things I learned that might help you too:

✅ I'm Still Working, So I Don’t Have to Enroll in Medicare Part B

Because I still have great insurance through my day job, I don’t have to sign up for Medicare Part B right now. That’s the part that covers doctor visits and outpatient care—and it comes with a monthly premium. Since my work insurance counts as “creditable coverage,” I can delay Part B without paying a late penalty down the road.

🏥 But I Can Enroll in Medicare Part A

Part A covers hospital care, and for most of us, it’s free if we’ve worked 10 years or more. There’s no harm in signing up now—unless you're still contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA). In that case, enrolling in Medicare will disqualify you from making future HSA contributions. (That was news to me!)

🕰 What Happens When I Retire?

When I finally hang up my vest—hopefully around age 70—I’ll have a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Part B without penalty. I just have to make sure to do it within 8 months of leaving my job and ending that employer coverage.

And if I need prescription coverage, I’ll also need to enroll in Part D—unless my current plan already counts as “creditable coverage,” which I’ll want to double-check.

📝 Keep the Paper Trail

When that time comes, my employer will need to fill out a special form (CMS-L564) verifying that I’ve had ongoing coverage. Medicare wants proof, and I don’t blame them.

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I hope this helps someone out there who’s feeling a little overwhelmed by the process. The truth is, turning 65 isn’t about slowing down—for many of us, it’s just a check-in point on a much bigger journey. I still have energy, purpose, and work to do. But I’m grateful for the resources that help us stay healthy, wise, and prepared.

If you’ve already navigated Medicare, I’d love to hear what you learned. And if you’re still figuring it out like I am, maybe we can compare notes over coffee.

Stay encouraged. Stay curious. And may we all live long and prosper. 💫

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📖 “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

— Isaiah 46:4 

Close Encounters of the Mother Nature Kind

Star Date: 06.27.2025

Close Encounters of the Mother Nature Kind

They say in Iowa, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes—it’ll change.” Yesterday proved that old saying true on my drive home from the day job. The sun was shining, winds were calm, and the humidity? Off the charts.

But then I noticed something shifting in the west—a dramatic line of clouds racing toward me at high speed. My phone buzzed with a warning: winds exceeding 70 mph were on the way. I reached my exit just in time, pulled over, and snapped a photo as the storm rolled in like a freight train.

A couple of minutes later, I captured the money shot—a powerful reminder of nature’s beauty and unpredictability. Thankfully, we’re safe, and life is settling back to normal after our close encounter of the Mother Nature kind.

Stay safe out there—and don’t forget to look up once in a while. You never know what’s headed your way.

“He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.”
— Psalm 91:4–5 

Finding Balance with Time-Restricted Eating

Star Date:  06.26.2025

Finding Balance with Time-Restricted Eating

If you're like me, you've probably wrestled with food at one point or another—trying to sort out what your body actually needs versus what your emotions or habits are telling you. For years, I believed I had to eat every few hours to keep my energy up. But what if the opposite is true? What if giving the body a break is exactly what it needs to heal?

That’s where Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) comes in.

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What Is Time-Restricted Eating?

TRE simply means you eat all your meals within a specific window of time—typically between 6 to 10 hours—and fast for the remaining hours of the day. You're still eating real, nourishing food. You're just giving your body the time it needs to rest, repair, and restore.

For me, that looks like eating once or twice a day, most days. And here's the surprising part—I'm not battling cravings anymore. Hunger doesn't drive me; it simply reminds me it's time to nourish my body.

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What Happens to the Body When You Fast?

Let’s look at the science behind why this rhythm works so well:

🧠 1. Hormonal Balance

TRE helps regulate two key hormones:

• Insulin, which stores energy from food, and

• Ghrelin, which triggers hunger.

When these are in sync, blood sugar stabilizes, and that rollercoaster of cravings disappears. I've noticed that food no longer has a hold on me the way it once did.

🔥 2. Metabolic Switching

After about 10–12 hours of fasting, your body starts switching from burning sugar to burning stored fat. This shift improves energy, reduces inflammation, and promotes healthy weight management. It's not just about burning calories—it’s about changing how your body fuels itself.

🛠️ 3. Deep Cellular Repair

Fasting turns on a powerful detox mode called autophagy, where your body breaks down and removes damaged cells. This process supports longevity and has even been linked to lower risks of chronic diseases.

⏰ 4. Circadian Rhythm Reset

Your body thrives on rhythm. TRE syncs your eating schedule with your natural body clock, helping you sleep better, digest more efficiently, and stabilize your mood. It’s like aligning yourself with the sunrise again.

💖 5. Digestive Rest & Gut Health

When you’re not constantly digesting, your body has time to rest and heal. Your gut microbiome resets. Bloating fades. Your system feels... peaceful. And if you’ve ever struggled with inflammation, this can be a game-changer.

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My Story: From Cravings to Clarity

When I first started eating this way, I thought I’d be constantly hungry or tired. But quite the opposite happened. As I settled into the rhythm, my hunger cues became trustworthy again. I no longer eat out of boredom or stress. I eat when my body asks—then I move on with my day.

There’s a freedom in that I didn’t know I was missing.

This journey is one of the many stories I share in Live Long and Prosper. It’s not just a food story—it’s a healing story. A hope story. A letting-go-of-what-no-longer-serves-you story.

If you haven’t read it yet, maybe today is the day to begin. Every purchase helps support the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital—a place where hope lives and miracles are made daily.

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Scripture Reflection

As I reflect on this new way of eating, I'm reminded of this verse:

“Everything is permissible for me—but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
—1 Corinthians 6:12 (NIV)

Food is a gift. But like any good gift, it’s meant to be enjoyed in balance. When we listen to our bodies and honor their design, we walk in freedom—not bondage.

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If you're curious about starting your own time-restricted journey, I encourage you to begin slowly. Experiment. Pay attention. And most importantly—give yourself grace. Healing is not a race.

May you find freedom, clarity, and balance in your journey today.
Live long. Prosper with purpose.

Know Thyself

Star Date: 06.25.25

If you examine your earliest memories, you may begin to see a connection between yourself and the world around you. It likely began with learning to crawl. Suddenly, your whole world opened up—inviting you to explore and discover how you fit into it all.

And if you’re anything like me, perhaps even at the age of almost 65, you're still trying to figure it out.

These past six months have taken me on an intense inner journey, and I’m beginning to see stellar results. Socrates got it right when he said, “Know thyself.” He also reminded us that, “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.”

If you're ready to go deeper with Socrates but aren’t sure where to begin, try returning to that crawling stage—at least when it comes to self-exploration. Let go of all the preconceived notions you have about who you think you are. Start fresh. Wipe the slate clean. And just as importantly, release what others may think about who you are. This is your journey, and yours alone.

Move at your own pace. Explore every puzzle piece buried deep in your mind. Be 1% better at knowing yourself today than you were yesterday. And if you’re doing this right, you’ll spend a good amount of time crawling before you even begin to walk.

Take your time.

Keep in mind—every time you turn on the TV or scroll through your phone, you risk becoming numb to your own inner journey. Maybe your brain is trying to protect you from something. But I promise you this: if you stay the course, if you keep showing up for yourself, you will find yourself. And you will come to know yourself.

It’s all about the journey.

“The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.”
— Proverbs 20:5

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Learning to Cope in a Changing World

Star Date: 06.24.25

There are seasons in life when the ground seems to shift beneath our feet. Lately, I’ve been living in one of those seasons.

I’ve lost dear friends and family members—people whose presence brought light to my days. Some passed unexpectedly. Others after long, painful journeys. Grief doesn’t just show up once and leave; it lingers. It weaves its way into daily life, sometimes quiet and sometimes overwhelming.

And while I grieve those losses, I’m also walking alongside other friends who are facing major health challenges of their own. Some are fighting battles with cancer, chronic illness, or emotional pain that doesn’t show on the outside. Watching people I love suffer is a different kind of ache—a helpless kind that left me asking: How do I cope with all of this?

For a while, I tried to keep going like everything was fine. I leaned on old patterns—keep busy, stay distracted, look strong. But I started to realize those patterns weren’t working anymore. Beneath the surface, anxiety and sadness were growing. I finally reached a point where I had to admit, “I need help.”

So I sought professional support.

And I want to say this out loud because I know someone needs to hear it: Turning to therapy wasn’t a sign of weakness. It was a sign that I wanted to live—and live well. It was in those safe conversations with a counselor that I learned something surprising. The grief I’ve been carrying isn’t just sorrow; it’s also depression. And naming it brought relief. It gave me permission to stop pretending I was fine.

I also began to look at how I was coping. There are four common types of coping mechanisms, and I’ve experienced each one in some way:

1. Problem-Focused Coping

Sometimes, taking a step—any step—toward a solution brings peace. I started making small changes: adjusting my routine, setting boundaries, and saying no when my plate was too full. Just making a doctor’s appointment or committing to a daily walk felt like reclaiming some control.

2. Emotion-Focused Coping

There are days when all I can do is breathe through the feelings. I’ve learned to cry when I need to, to write when words get stuck inside, and to lean into music or prayer when my heart feels heavy. The emotion doesn’t go away, but it no longer owns me.

3. Meaning-Focused Coping

This one has anchored me the most. I believe that even in pain, purpose can rise. I find meaning in writing, in encouraging others, and in supporting children through the hospital that changed my life. Faith gives me a reason to keep going when I can’t explain the why.

4. Avoidance Coping

Yes, I’ve been here too. Whether it’s zoning out on my phone, eating too much comfort food, or pretending everything’s fine—it’s tempting to numb the pain. But I’ve learned these quick fixes don’t bring healing. They just delay it. Healing takes courage—and I’m choosing courage, even when it feels slow.

What’s different now is that I’m more honest—with God, with others, and with myself. I’m making changes in my approach to life. And while the road isn’t easy, it’s real. It’s filled with grace. I’m learning how to live with loss, walk beside suffering, and still look forward with hope.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or grieving right now, please know this: you're not alone. It's okay to admit that you're not okay. There’s help available—and healing begins when we stop trying to carry it all on our own.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

The Dopamine Loop

 Star Date: 06.23.25

If you were to make an activity log of everything you do in a week—from the moment you wake up until you lay your head down at night—and then study the list, how would it make you feel?

If logging a full week sounds overwhelming, just try tracking one single day. For most of us, one day is enough to reveal patterns. You’ll likely spot a few things you’re proud of—and maybe a few you’d rather not repeat.

Now, here’s where it gets exciting. I want to introduce you to an idea that can help you accomplish more while trimming away wasted time. It’s backed by brain science, and I need to give you a little warning: this might be highly addictive (in the best kind of way). Once you learn how to work with your brain instead of against it, your loved ones might not recognize this focused, joyful version of you.

It’s called the dopamine loop.

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How It Works

The dopamine loop is all about setting up a reward system during your pursuit of goals. That’s right—you don’t have to wait until you’ve crossed the finish line to feel good. Your brain rewards you with a little hit of dopamine, the “feel good” chemical, just for showing up—especially when you’re working on something that aligns with your values and purpose.

Pay attention to how you feel while you’re engaged in something meaningful. If you sense a surge of energy or clarity, you’re entering the loop. That little burst of momentum? That’s your brain saying, keep going.

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Momentum Over Perfection

Here’s the secret most high achievers have learned: You don’t need a grand result to feel fulfilled. It’s not the trophy that makes you come alive—it’s the pursuit. You can reward yourself while you're still in motion.

You’ll start to realize something powerful: when you're in the loop, you don't stall, you don't procrastinate, and you don’t wait around for the “big win.” Even small tasks begin to feel satisfying. You’ve trained your brain to respond to progress.

If you want to test it out, here’s a great place to start: devote your first hour of the day to meaningful pursuit. Create a short to-do list of what matters most. Then, celebrate each task as you complete it. Feel that lift? That’s dopamine doing its job.

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The Divine Reminder

There’s a reason this works so well—it’s how God designed us. The same God who breathes life into every sunrise also rejoices when we take that first small step toward something good. Scripture says:

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”
—Zechariah 4:10 

So give yourself credit for showing up. Every faithful step counts. Every pursuit aligned with love and truth is worth celebrating.

Train your brain to delight in the journey, and you’ll find yourself walking in purpose, one joyful loop at a time.  Have a great day.

Free Shakespeare in Iowa City Ends 6/29

Hark! Get thee to Iowa City before June 29th for Romeo and Juliet—a FREE outdoor performance worth thy presence. 🌹🎭 “For never was a story of more woe…” and never was a better reason to support the arts. #LiveTheater #IowaCityLove #ShakespeareLives...

 High heat indexes couldn't keep the Mrs. and me from watching Romeo and Juliet last night in Iowa City at the Lower City Park, presented in our favorite love language – FREE.  That's right, professional actors, amazing staff, and free Shakespeare.  How can this be?  This is what happens when visionaries take the helm and transform communities.  Willam Shakespeare is regarded as the best writer of all times.  These actors paid homage with their brilliant performance.  I must admit that I'm becoming a huge fan of live theater.  This is my first exposure to Shakespeare live.  All I can say is this play is a must see.  You will not be disappointed.  

Iowa City is known as the city of literature.  This play is a prime example why Iowa City gets top honors year after year since 2008 when it first received the designation.  I highly recommend you see this play tonight at 7:30, or 6/26 thru 6/29 at 7:30.  The outdoor venue is amazing.  If though is doest moved to make a donation, this will go a long way to support a great cause.  Have a great day.

My Emotional Roller Coaster

My Emotional Roller Coaster

I'm going deep today.

Some of you may find this ride a bit scary. If today's story feels too heavy, it's okay to skip it and come back another day. I’ve hesitated to share this because it requires more vulnerability than I’m used to. But I know I'm not the only one wrestling with these emotions—and maybe that’s the point.

Take a moment and think about what scares you most. Picture yourself at a theme park, standing in front of the biggest, wildest ride. Part of you wants the thrill. The other part says, “Hell no.”

That’s exactly how my emotions have been lately.

There’s a part of me trying hard to keep everything in check. Maybe that’s why I’ve always connected with Spock from Star Trek. He constantly battles between logic and emotion—between being the disciplined Vulcan and the human part of himself screaming to be heard. Spock was bullied for being different. His classmates thought emotions made him flawed. But the truth is, those emotions made him special. Spock was chosen to go on roller coaster rides his Vulcan peers couldn’t handle—because his heart gave him access to places logic never could.

Lately, I’ve been wrestling with thoughts of mortality. Not my own—I feel at peace with the choices I make each day to live long and prosper. That part is going well.

What’s harder is watching loved ones face their own mortality.

That’s what’s making my emotions soar off the charts. One of those emotions is called grief. If you’ve ever known someone who has suffered great loss and seemed “off” to you, then you understand what I’m feeling. Grief doesn’t come alone. It often brings a companion—depression. They tend to sit together in the back of the roller coaster, where the ride is the most intense.

I used to think that people who are generally happy and positive—people like me—shouldn’t have to sit next to these two passengers. But I was wrong. Ignoring them doesn’t make them go away.

So, I decided to ask for help.
Professional help.
Because these emotions were not going to disappear on their own.

Sadly, the list of friends and family struggling with mortality issues continues to grow. And I have no control over that. The only thing I can do is listen to my emotions and let them speak.

There is only one person who ever beat death.
He’s not afraid of roller coaster rides.
I’m doing my best to follow His ways.

I’ve asked Him to help me deal with all the twists and turns. Like my superhero Spock, Jesus was mocked for being different. He had friends who betrayed Him. He was bullied. He wept when His friends died. He surrendered His will to His Father. And through it all—He remained with those He loved.

I trust that Jesus is with me, especially when the emotional roller coaster gets scary and it feels like the wheels might fall off.

Thank you for riding with me today.
Have a great day.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:5–6 

Even on the wildest rides, we are not alone. Keep trusting the One who steadies the tracks beneath your feet.

Round 2 of Lab Experiments

Star Date 06.20.2025

The last time I served as a lab rat for the University of Iowa was back in 2017. I had been invited to participate in what has become the university’s longest-running research study on arthritis. It involved a battery of X-rays, ultrasounds, and other medical tests—all part of a deeper dive into the mysteries of this common, yet complex, condition.

Fast forward to just a couple of weeks ago, and I received the call for Round 2. Funding had come through, and the experiments are continuing. But this time, the research feels even more exciting: I’ve also been asked to volunteer for additional studies led by PhD candidates exploring the connection between food and arthritis.

One of the researchers happens to be a marathon runner. I think I surprised her when I brought up one of my own heroes—Professor Tim Noakes, a legendary figure in the running world. His work, both on endurance and nutrition, has been a guiding light for many of us walking the unconventional path.

Speaking of unconventional… my eating habits aren’t exactly what you’d call standard. But I believe my odd food ways are exactly what keep me going strong on the tennis courts. There’s something to be said for listening to your body and finding what works uniquely for you.

The best part? I’ll be able to access the results of this research once they’re released. And you know I’ll be eager to share any helpful lessons I learn along the way.

Stay tuned—and as always, have a great day!

Date Night at Texas Roadhouse Tonight

Date Night at Texas Roadhouse Tonight!
Doors open today at 3:00 p.m. at Texas Roadhouse in Coralville, Iowa—and you're invited! Friends, families, and supporters of all ages are welcome to dine in or order to go.

Here’s how you can help: When you eat at Texas Roadhouse today, simply drop your receipt in the box located at the host stand or at the To-Go window. 10% of your food order will go directly to Iowa County Pickleball, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building four new pickleball courts at the Williamsburg Rec Center.

Be sure to look for our enthusiastic volunteers proudly wearing their Iowa County Pickleball shirts during the evening. My wife and I will be dining at 6:30 p.m.—we’d love to see you there!

Please spread the word by sharing this message with your family and friends. Thank you for your continued support—and enjoy your meal knowing you're helping us serve up something great for the community!

Have a wonderful day!

What Does Your Plan for Success Look Like?

Star Date: 06.18.25

Summer officially begins in just a couple of days. If you're like me, you might be wondering—How is that even possible?It feels like we just rang in the New Year. Maybe you’re feeling like time is slipping through your fingers, faster than you can hold on. If that resonates, I invite you to keep reading. I have a simple, powerful idea to help shape your next six months.

Whether you're ready or not, 2026 is just over half a year away. That’s not meant to alarm you—it’s an opportunity. What if you created a six-month success plan starting today? A focused, intentional blueprint for becoming the very best version of yourself.

Now, I know success plans are typically reserved for New Year’s resolutions. But what if we treated this like an experiment? One where the goal isn’t perfection, but progress. If it works—and I believe it can—you’ll walk into 2026 with so much clarity and confidence, you might not even recognize yourself. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, that is the point.

The biggest challenge you’ll face isn’t time, or money, or even motivation. It’s your brain. Our brains love comfort and predictability. That’s why six months is a brilliant timeframe—it’s just long enough to create meaningful change, but not so long that it sparks a mental rebellion. This is your “Goldilocks” window: not too short, not too long. Just right. And it starts with a decision.

Here’s what I’ve learned: my best competition isn’t my neighbor. It’s not someone on my friends list or social media feed. My fiercest competitor is me—the version of me from yesterday. I know exactly what he did, what he avoided, and how he showed up. So today, I aim to do just a little better. And tomorrow? I’ll do the same.

That may sound simple, but over the course of six months, it’s transformational. Most people won’t notice your shift at first—and that’s okay. You don’t need to announce it. You don’t need to impress anyone. In fact, it’s often better to keep your plan close to your heart. Sharing it too early may invite doubts—from others and even from your own mind. And that doubt can derail you.

So keep it quiet. Stay steady. Design your plan. Follow it daily. And six months from now, you’ll thank yourself.

You’ve got this.

"But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another." — Galatians 6:4

Got Dinner Plans for Thursday, 6/19? Join Us at Texas Roadhouse and Support Iowa County Pickleball

🏓 Dine Out for a Cause – Help Build Pickleball Courts in Williamsburg! 🍽️

We’re inviting friends, family, and pickleball lovers to join us for a special fundraiser night at Texas Roadhouse in Coralville, Iowa on Thursday, June 19th!

Here’s how to help:

✅ Dine in or order To-Go
✅ Drop your receipt in the box at the host stand or To-Go window
✅ 10% of your food sales will go directly toward building four new outdoor pickleball courts in Williamsburg

My wife and I will be dining at 6:30 PM, and we’d love to see you there!

👕 Wear your Pickleball Iowa County shirts to show team spirit
📲 Share this post on your social media to help us spread the word

Let’s serve up support together—one meal at a time. Thank you for being part of this mission to grow our community and create more space for fun and connection!  Special thanks to the staff at Texas Roadhouse for your generous donation to help build four outdoor courts in Williamsburg at the Williamsburg Rec Center.  The courts will be built once the funds are raised.  

Your No Regret Check List

Star Date 06.16.25

Maybe you’ve lost a loved one.
Perhaps you’ve had a health scare.
Either way, something shook you awake and brought you face-to-face with your own mortality. In that quiet moment, you asked yourself a simple question—and discovered a list of regrets that’s now urging you to rethink how you want to live the rest of your life.

You’ve decided that when your time comes, you want your No Regret Checklist to be blank.
Today is your day to get started.

Step One:
Make a list of everything you regret not doing.
Write it all down—childhood dreams, hobbies you never started, adventures you put off. Don’t hold back.

And as you write, remember this one truth:
Your heart is still beating. It's not too late.

Step Two:
Create a strategy to tackle the list.
Start small or go bold—but start. Every item you cross off is one less regret you'll carry. Make this list your priority. Make it fun. Make it yours.

Your life isn’t over—it’s unfolding.

“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”
—Joel 2:25

Happy Father's Day

 Happy Father’s Day

Fatherhood—it’s a calling. And I’m thankful I answered that call. Being a dad, three times over, has given me a deep sense of completeness. While raising children may be a temporary assignment, fatherhood is a lifelong role.

I often remind our adult children that if I can help shorten their learning curve by sharing my own missteps, maybe their journey toward their dreams will be a little smoother.

One of my dad’s favorite quotes lives permanently in my head and heart: “If you’re gonna do it, do it right.” The contributions we make as fathers ripple through generations. So let’s do it right.

And if you’re carrying the weight of unmet expectations because your father fell short in some way, maybe today is the day to release that burden. One of the most healing gifts you can offer is a simple thank-you—acknowledging that your dad did the best he could with the resources he had.

To my father in Heaven, I salute you. It’s hard to believe you were only two years older than I am now when you left this world, twenty-three years ago. I’m grateful for all you gave me—and my siblings.

Happy Father’s Day.

“The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.”
—Proverbs 20:7

Got Bio Rhythm?

 Star Date: 06.14.2025

Your body was built to run on rhythm.

Not the kind you hear at a concert, but the kind that hums quietly beneath the surface—your biological rhythms. These rhythms are like internal clocks that sync your body with the world around you. And when they’re in tune, they can fuel your energy, sharpen your focus, and boost your ability to heal and thrive.

But when they’re off? You feel it.

Poor sleep. Low energy. Foggy thinking. Cravings that come from nowhere. The truth is, our modern world often pulls us out of sync. Artificial lights, screens after sundown, erratic eating patterns, and missed workouts all disrupt the flow.

But the good news? You can reset your rhythm. Starting today.

This morning, I’m grabbing my tennis racket and heading out to meet my teammates for an 8:30 a.m. workout under the open sky. It’s part of how I stay in tune—getting my body moving, breathing in the fresh air, and soaking in the first wave of sunlight. It’s not just good exercise. It’s rhythm restoration.

Here are a few other simple, powerful daily habits that help me stay aligned:

🌅 Sunrise & Sunset: Nature’s Clock Reset

Looking toward the early morning sun and again near sunset—safely, of course—helps reset your circadian rhythm. This light exposure tells your brain it’s time to be alert or prepare for rest. Just 5–10 minutes outside during those golden hours can lift your mood and improve your sleep quality.

❄️ Cold Shower Blasts: Instant Wake-Up for Your Cells

Ending your shower with a short burst of cold water stimulates your nervous system in a powerful way. It reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and triggers a wave of feel-good endorphins. Think of it as a natural jumpstart for your day.

🌲 Time in Nature: Sync With the Source

Spending even 20 minutes outdoors helps lower stress hormones, balance blood pressure, and support deeper sleep by naturally boosting melatonin. It’s like plugging your soul back into the Source.

🍽️ Eating and Moving on a Schedule: Rhythm in Action

When you eat around the same time each day and move your body regularly—even with something as simple as a walk—you reinforce signals to your internal clock that all is well. This supports digestion, hormonal balance, and consistent energy.

This isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about embracing consistency.

Little by little, your body remembers what it’s capable of when you live in rhythm with the world God designed. It’s not just about longevity—it’s about living fully, vibrantly, and purposefully. Your best self is already inside you. Sometimes, it just needs the rhythm of grace to awaken.

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“For everything there is a season,
and a time for every matter under heaven...”
—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Happy Friday the 13th

Star Date: 06.13.25

Some folks see Friday the 13th as unlucky, but I tend to believe that when you go looking for good fortune, you’re far more likely to find it.

My vacation officially came to an end just after midnight when our plane touched down late last night. Time to return to the day job—and truth be told, I’m ready.

Wishing you a day filled with blessings in abundance.
Make it a great one.

“Surely your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
— Psalm 23:6

Wheels Up

Our family vacation is over.  We came for a wedding.  We stayed an extra day for baseball featuring the World Champion Dodgers and our beloved Padres.  I'm thankful for the eight days of social media silence so I could be 100% present to my loved ones.  I return to my day job on Friday the 13th.  I will also resume work on my latest writing adventure introducing my new illustrator, Helen M. Swearson.  Helen did the heavy lifting using her creativity for "Where in the World is Wilson?"  She is donating all her drawings for a coloring book dedicated to the sick kids at Children's hospitals across the country.  My hope is to obtain donations so these kids can have an inspiring coloring book during their visit to the hospital.  Stay tuned.  We are in the final stages of preparation.  Thank you, Helen, for your labor of love and for donating your time and talent.  Have a great day.

Big Show Down at Petco Park Today in San Diego

 I would like to give a huge shoutout to our youngest son, Shane, for treating his mom and dad to this amazing opportunity to see the best teams in baseball at our favorite ball park in America.  We arrived for a wedding and stayed an extra day for this special gift.  Regular programming resumes tomorrow when we return home.  A million thanks to our son.  Have a great day.

How the Surrender Prayer Changed Everything

Star Date: 06.10.25

How the Surrender Prayer Changed Everything

I came across the Surrender Prayer in a YouTube video and decided to try something new: I made it the first thing I say every morning. It’s simple. It's powerful. And in all honesty—it changed everything.

Here’s the prayer:
“Oh Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything.”
I say it ten times. Every morning. Without fail. No exceptions.

At first, I didn’t notice much. But over time—slowly, quietly—my life began to shift. Tasks that once overwhelmed me started to feel lighter. My to-do list didn’t vanish, but the burden of carrying it alone did.

Jesus brought people into my life—helpers, encouragers, brothers and sisters—who seemed to show up just when I needed them most. I realized what He meant when He said, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” That wasn’t poetic language. That was a promise. And He’s keeping it.

This isn’t a prayer to try for a few days and forget. This is a daily surrender that will gently reshape your life from the inside out. I can’t explain it fully—only that when you give Jesus everything, He gives you peace in return.

Start tomorrow. Start today. Say it ten times. Let it work on you.
And watch what happens.

“Oh Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything.”

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
—1 Peter 5:7

Letting Yourself Be Happy Again

Star Date: 06.09.25

I never expected grief to hang around this long.

I thought I could muscle through it—carry the weight with my usual resolve, press forward with projects and good intentions, maybe even outrun the ache by helping others. But loss doesn’t work that way. It settles in like a fog and, some days, you can barely see through it.

It’s not that I didn’t want to be happy again. It’s that happiness felt… forbidden. Like smiling would dishonor the people I’ve lost. Like laughter would betray their memory. Maybe you’ve been there, too.

There came a point—after months of quietly trudging forward—when I realized I wasn’t just grieving the ones I’d lost. I was grieving the joy I wasn’t allowing myself to feel.

That’s when I did something I hadn’t done before: I asked for help.

I reached out to a professional and began sorting through the tangled threads of sorrow, guilt, and fear. It wasn’t about forgetting or moving on—it was about making space. Space for their memory and my healing. Space for sadness and joy. Space to let myself be happy again.

There’s a quiet truth I’ve come to hold: happiness doesn’t mean the grief is gone. It means grace has made room for both.

Bronnie Ware, who wrote The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, said this one kept surfacing:

“I wish that I had let myself be happier.”

Not that happiness was impossible. Just that it wasn’t permitted. It was a choice left unmade.

I don’t want that to be my story. I don’t want it to be yours either.

So today, I’m choosing to smile. I’m choosing to celebrate the life that still pulses through my veins. I’m letting the light in, even if it’s just a flicker some days. Because Jesus came to give life—and not just survival, but abundant life.

Even on this side of loss.

“You turned my mourning into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.”
— Psalm 30:11 

D"r"ink and Donate for Pickleball at Fireside Today in Iowa County

Come meet my Pickleball friends at Fireside Winery today from 11am to 4pm.  Bring your paddle or use one of ours.  The owners of Fireside set up indoor play during this community fundraiser featuring food, wine, entertainment, and pickleball jars of fun including a huge assortment of silent auction items.  You will not be disappointed.  Address is 1755 P Ave, Marengo, IA, just off of exit 220 on I80.

Click here for details.  Have a great day

Do You Have the Courage to Live a Life True to Yourself?

Star Date: 06.07.25

Brace yourself. This is a tough question. You can answer it today, or you can wait until you are near the end of your time here on this planet.

According to Bronnie Ware, author of The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, this is number one on the list:
“I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.”

When I first read that, I had to sit with it. Let it sink in.

How many of us have spent our days striving to please others? To meet expectations—spoken and unspoken—that we never really chose? We trade authenticity for approval, dreams for duty, passion for predictability. And slowly, quietly, our true selves drift into the shadows.

I've been spending time working on courage. Not the flashy kind that runs into burning buildings, but the quiet courage that whispers: This is who I am. This is what I’m made for. This is the life God is calling me to live.

So I’m asking myself—and asking you:
What part of you have you hidden away to keep others comfortable?
What dream have you delayed out of fear it might make waves?
What truth are you aching to speak, but haven’t found the words—or the bravery—yet?

Ware's book reminds us that when people reach the end of their lives, what rises to the surface is often not what they did, but what they didn’t do. The songs they never sang. The stories they never told. The love they never expressed. The life they never fully lived.

But here's the good news: we’re not at the end yet. We have today.

So maybe today is the day you take one small step back toward your truest self. Maybe you pick up the brush, dust off the journal, send the message, ask the hard question, say yes to something that scares you just enough to mean you're alive.

Living true to yourself doesn’t mean walking alone—it means walking in alignment with your purpose, your Creator, and the calling that has been stitched into your soul from the beginning.

Let’s choose courage—not later, but now.

You and me, friend. We’re in this together. Let’s live with such honesty and heart that when our time comes, we won’t say, I wish I had... but rather, I’m so glad I did.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.”
—Jeremiah 29:11

Turn Your Regrets Into Fertilizer

Turn Your Regrets Into Fertilizer
Star Date: 06.06.25

Do you have a stack of regrets gnawing at you? My hope is to leave this world with as few regrets as possible. That’s no easy task, because if we’re honest and willing to pause for reflection, most of us carry a few we’d rather forget.

But here’s an idea: turn your regrets into fertilizer. Recycled regret—when handled with intention—can help you grow and change. But it takes action.

Here’s an example inspired by one of the top five regrets of the dying: “I wish I had the courage to express my feelings.”Don’t wait until you’re lying on a deathbed to turn that regret into something useful.

Looking back at my own life, I think of the crate filled with love letters between my wife and me—2,500 from each of us. That’s 5,000 expressions of truth, joy, struggle, and love. Some of those feelings stunk up the place. But we were knee-deep in fertilizer—real, raw, life-giving stuff.

The truth is, feelings aren’t good or bad—they’re either spoken or unspoken.
Unspoken feelings often fester into regret.
Spoken feelings? They become fertilizer—messy, real, and essential for healthy relationships.

Start turning your regrets into growth now. Let every buried feeling rise to the surface and set it free. Don’t wait. You have time today.

Joel 2:25 
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”

Can You Teach an Old Brain New Tricks?

Star Date: 06.05.25

Today’s blog is all about your belief system.

If you believe you’re too set in your ways to make positive changes—you’re right.
But if, like me, you believe age doesn’t matter when it comes to growth and transformation—you’re also right.

It all comes down to what you feed your brain—specifically, your thoughts.
Here’s the truth: your brain is always looking for new programming. What you consistently think about shapes what you become. Good, intentional thoughts lead to good, intentional outcomes.

Expect some brain rebellion—especially when introducing new ideas. That’s normal. The older you are, the more deeply your brain remembers its old habits. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.

The fight to change your ways? It’s a worthy one.
Stay with it, even when it feels uphill. Eventually, your brain will catch on—and catch up.

It all starts with believing.

Have a great day.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
— Romans 12:2 

Birthday Milestone One Month Away

Star Date: 06.04.25

It’s hard to believe, but I’m now just one month away from a significant calendar flip—my 65th birthday.

The folks over at Uncle Sam’s desk decided that the official retirement age for my generation should be bumped to 67, in hopes of keeping Social Security afloat. As for me? I’m pushing the line even further—choosing to wait five more years, one month, and one day from today.

Why so specific? I have this crazy idea that I want to celebrate my 70th birthday with my day-job teammates. Since our workplace will be officially closed on my actual birthday, I’ve decided I’ll swing by on star date 07.05.30—just for a small slice of birthday cake and, most likely, a big slice of gratitude.  If my future self is still thriving, my theory is this is because I went against the grain and limited my sugar intake.

Some might wonder why I’m thinking this far ahead.
The truth? It’s all about how fast time seems to be moving these days. The older I get, the more the years feel like they’re picking up speed. Blink, and another season has passed.

I’ve come to see these next five years as transition years—a bridge between what has been and what’s still to come. But there’s one part of my life I hope won’t change: my writing. I pray I’ll continue to tell stories, capture moments, and share the good Jesus is doing in my life—wherever I may be.

Speaking of transitions, I’m getting excited about adopting Lucy in just a couple of months. She’ll be our vacation home on wheels. I’ve been learning, little by little, what it takes to build her out in my spare time. The dream is becoming clearer each day.

Stay tuned—this is going to be another great adventure.

“Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.”
—Psalm 92:14 

Rewiring for Longevity: How Neuroplasticity Helped Me Heal from the Inside Out

Star Date: 06.03.2025

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I didn’t always know that food could be medicine.
In fact, for years, I made choices that felt routine but were silently working against me. Fast food. Late-night snacks. Sugary pick-me-ups. I thought I was just tired from life — from stress, work, and age. But what I didn’t realize was that the very things I was eating were causing inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, and real damage inside my body.

Then came the health scare.
A moment where everything paused. Tests revealed what I had been ignoring. It hit me: If I don’t change something now, this will only get worse. I wasn’t just out of shape — I was out of alignment with the life God wanted for me. A full life. A long life. One where I could give my best to others — not just what was left of me.

I didn’t need another fad diet. I needed to rewire my brain, starting with food experiments to find the source of my ailments.

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The Hope Hiding in Our Brains

The science of neuroplasticity changed everything for me.
It’s the idea that your brain — no matter your age — is capable of change. You can teach it new habits. You can rewrite old patterns. You can quite literally rebuild your mindset, one intentional choice at a time.

Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist at Stanford, explains that the brain changes most effectively when:

• We’re focused on a new behavior

• We repeat that behavior with emotion or reward

• We allow for rest and sleep to consolidate the changes

And that’s exactly what I started doing.

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Three Keys That Helped Me Rewire My Habits

1. Attention is the Spark

Instead of mindlessly eating, I slowed down. I paid attention to what I was putting in my body. I learned to ask, Is this fueling life or feeding disease? That focus lit the fuse for change.

It started with my grocery cart.
I began concentrating on foods without labels — whole, natural foods that don’t need a list of ingredients because they are the ingredient. Apples. Leafy greens. Sweet potatoes. Wild salmon. The more I stayed away from processed items filled with things I couldn’t pronounce, the more my body began to thank me.

My rule of thumb? If God made it, it’s probably good. If man altered it, I needed to pause. That simple shift in how I shopped rewired the way I ate.  I also asked myself if my food choices were similar to the choices my caveman ancestors made.  Hint:  Their food choices were highly limited compared to what we see in grocery stores today.

2. Reward the Win

Huberman teaches that the emotion tied to a habit determines whether it sticks. So I made a decision: every time I chose something nourishing, I would smile, say a short prayer of thanks, and remind myself: This is who I’m becoming. That simple moment of joy helped my brain say, “Let’s do that again.”

3. Sleep is the Cement

Your brain consolidates learning at night. I began protecting my rest like it was sacred — because it is. I limited screens, embraced natural light in the morning, and let go of late-night snacking. My sleep improved, and so did everything else.  I found that my hunger no longer shows up every two hours.  This helps me sleep better at night.

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Grace, Healing, and a Renewed Mind

Romans 12:2 reminds us:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Neuroplasticity is the scientific confirmation of that scripture. And I believe it’s one of the most hopeful truths we can hold onto: We are not stuck.
Through focused effort, faith, and the incredible adaptability God placed in our brains, we can change. We can heal. We can thrive.

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Final Encouragement

If you’re facing your own health scare, if you feel discouraged by the habits you’ve struggled to break, please hear this:

You’re not too far gone.
You’re not too old.
You’re not stuck.

Your brain is listening.
Your body is waiting.
And by God’s grace, you can rewire your life — one faithful step at a time.  Every baby step matters.

Let’s keep walking forward, together.

Live long and prosper,
Michael

The Remarkable Longevity of My Great Great Grandmother, Priciliana Carillo Tovar

A recent health scare in the family prompted me to think about our family genes and perhaps what the potential for living long might be.  This story is a repost from a couple of years ago with a couple of added tips for longevity.  Special thanks to my Aunt Marcie, my mother’s youngest sister, for unearthing the roots of our family history and preserving them in photo books—her work has given me the gift of connection to a past I never lived but deeply value.  

Can you imagine living to be 114 years old?

In today’s world, that’s almost unheard of. According to global statistics, living beyond 110 places someone in the rarest category of human longevity—fewer than one in a million people live that long. And yet, over a century ago, my great-great-grandmother, Priciliana Carillo Tovar, did exactly that. She was born on January 4, 1830, and lived through two world wars, the invention of the automobile and the telephone, the rise and fall of empires, and the dawn of electricity. And she did it all before modern medicine, clean water systems, and preventive health screenings became the norm.

It’s astonishing to think about how much the world changed in her lifetime—and how strong her spirit must have been to endure it all.

Priciliana was married young, at the age of 14, to Miguel Tovar.  From what I understand, she was a woman of deep and unwavering faith. Her values were passed down from generation to generation—like a sacred thread weaving through the fabric of our family story. I’m convinced her faith, purpose, and strong family ties were part of what kept her going for so long.

So what can we take from her life in our pursuit to live long and prosper?

It’s not just about living longer—it’s about living well. Living purposefully.
Here are a few things I’ve learned from reflecting on her legacy:

• Faith and resilience matter. They anchor us when the winds of change blow hard.

• Family and community are essential. Longevity isn’t just about biology—it’s about belonging.

• Movement, mindset, and mission—all three keep the heart and soul young.

• And perhaps most importantly: gratitude. A grateful spirit keeps the flame of life burning brightly.

I often wonder what my great-great-grandmother would say if she were here today. I imagine she’d smile softly and remind me: “It’s not how long you live, but how deeply you love.”

"Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and prosper..." —Deuteronomy 5:33

How about you? Who’s the oldest or wisest person in your life who has left an impression on your heart?

Let’s keep telling these stories. Let’s keep living with purpose.
Have a great day.

A Mulligan from Mr. Lincoln

Star Date: 06.01.2025

We all come from stories—some are etched in stone, others hidden in the folds of time, waiting for someone to pick them up and carry them forward.

One such story in my family belongs to Captain James Starkey, a man whose legacy has quietly shaped both the history of Minnesota and, indirectly, my own life. During the Civil War era, Starkey served as the commander of the St. Paul Light Cavalry, a unit formed to protect settlers on the frontier and support Union efforts. He wore the uniform of a soldier but bore the complex burdens that came with leadership in turbulent times.

Family stories tell of a court martial—that he was found guilty of creating a false muster and recruiting underage boys. But rather than being cast aside, Starkey’s life took an unexpected turn. President Abraham Lincoln, a man revered for his deep capacity for mercy, is said to have intervened, allowing Starkey a second chance to serve—not on the battlefield, but in public life.

And that’s exactly what he did.

Historical records confirm that Captain James Starkey became a member of the very first Minnesota State Legislature when statehood was granted. Representing District 2 (Ramsey County), he served from 12.02.1857 to 12.06.1859. In the House's temporary organization, he was named Speaker Pro Tempore—one of the first leaders to help steer Minnesota's legislative body in its earliest days. While not the first official Speaker, Starkey held the gavel as the House gathered for its first business. He later chaired the Banks Committee and served on the influential Ways and Means Committee, helping shape the young state’s policies and infrastructure.

It’s also believed that Starkey played a key role in designing St. Paul’s original sewer system—an unglamorous but essential act of public service that laid a foundation for the city’s growth and health.

This story matters to me because it mirrors what I’ve come to know as true in my own walk: we are all in need of grace. Sometimes that grace comes from presidents. Sometimes from a stranger. And sometimes, it has to come from within.

Captain Starkey’s story is a Mulligan—a do-over. A second chance that wasn’t wasted. He didn’t let one chapter define the entire book. He turned a page and wrote something redemptive. That story flows through my family line, right down to me. I’m the product of educators, legislators, and a long line of doctors—people who chose lives of healing, service, and purpose. And I carry the torch forward, hoping to live with the same kind of courage and humility.

So today, I honor this flawed and faithful ancestor—not as a hero without blemish, but as a man who got back up and built something that lasted.

To anyone reading this who feels like their past disqualifies them from making a difference, hear this:
Your story isn’t over.
The pen is still in your hand.
And grace… still writes in ink.

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Michael Mulligan is a storyteller, encourager, and author of Live Long and Prosper, sharing grace-filled stories rooted in real-life redemption. All proceeds from his work support the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.