Celebrating Blog Story #6,000

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Stardate 01.22.2026

Six thousand days.
Six thousand stories.
Six thousand small steps in a marathon only God could have mapped out.

Today is more than a milestone — it’s a moment I never imagined reaching. Sixteen years of showing up. Often quietly. Often in the wilderness. Often with nothing more than a gentle nudge from God whispering, Keep going, Michael.

Some thought I was out of my mind to stay with this for so long. But every story, every struggle, every lesson — they carried me here. And today, I’m peeling back the final layer of the onion to share something that has always been part of me, but rarely spoken aloud.

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A Story I Never Planned to Tell

If you’ve followed this journey, you know I never set out to be a writer. As a boy, I watched my dad face rejection after rejection. He had the talent, the education, the discipline — and still, the world didn’t open the doors he hoped for.

Watching that made writing feel dangerous. Like stepping onto ground that had already burned my family once.

That tension lingered between us for decades.

And then one morning… I woke up and started typing.

I learned to use all my fingers.
I learned social media.
I learned how to share my heart without losing my peace.

And slowly, one imperfect step at a time, this unexpected calling began to shape me.

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A Faith Refined Through Fire

My relationship with Jesus is stronger now than it’s ever been.

One day I asked Him, “Show me who I am in Your eyes.”
What He showed me wasn’t flattering.
But it was true.
And it was freeing.

I began to see how much of my life had been shaped by forces I didn’t fully understand — anger, fear, loneliness, self-reliance. Battles many of us carry quietly. Jesus didn’t reveal those things to shame me. He revealed them so He could heal me.

That healing led me back to where my story began.

I was raised Catholic. I drifted for years — mostly because I was angry with God. Then I met my wife. Her quiet devotion softened something in me. Worshiping beside her felt like coming home.

Today, I want to say something clearly — and gently.

I am Catholic.
And I believe deeply that every one of us belongs to God’s family no matter what label we choose to describe our particular denomination or flavor of worship.  

You don’t have to agree with me. I’m not here to convert anyone. Many of my closest friends worship in traditions different from my own, and I’m grateful for what they’ve taught me. A few aren't even sure there is a God. All people are welcome here. This space has always been about something bigger than labels. It's bigger than the fences we build around us. Perhaps that's why I was so drawn into Star Trek as a young boy watching people from the ends of the earth coming together for one purpose.

It’s about love.
And love makes room.

That spirit will guide the next chapter of these stories.

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Thank You for Walking This Journey With Me

Your encouragement. Your presence. Your willingness to walk alongside me — it means more than I can say.

Today isn’t just my celebration.
It’s ours.

And if you’re wondering what comes next, I can promise you this:

We’re just getting started.

May you live long and prosper.
Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: Six thousand logs… Michael, remind me again why we’re not retired on some warm beach by now?
Spock: Doctor, your fixation on beaches continues to defy logic. This milestone is the predictable outcome of discipline and consistency.
Bones: Consistency? He’s running on stubbornness and whatever coffee he finds nearby.
Spock: And yet, Doctor, his method has proven effective.
Bones: (softening) All right… six thousand is no small feat. Just don’t tell him I said that.
Spock: Your attempt at secrecy is… statistically unlikely.

Michael’s Reflection:
Their banter makes me smile because they’re both right. This milestone wasn’t built on perfection. It was built on showing up — with grace, humility, and a willingness to grow one percent at a time.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 1:6

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Mission Log

Milestone: 6,000 consecutive blog entries
Status: Grateful. Grounded. Hopeful
Objective: Continue uplifting hearts, sharing truth, and walking boldly in divine love

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Thank you for celebrating this moment with me. May it stir something quiet and hopeful in your own heart — and may God meet you gently in whatever chapter you’re walking through next.

Join me here:
https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Tomorrow

Stardate 01.21.2026

There is a quiet confidence that comes from doing something over and over with a mindset of continuous improvement. That confidence has a way of spilling into other areas of life.

Not long ago, I rejected writing altogether. I saw it as a distraction—a poor use of time and energy. Now, I find myself savoring the golden hour each morning, writing before stepping out of the magical forest and into the day ahead.

Tomorrow, something my former self would have judged as foolish is about to happen.

Drum roll, please.

The odometer on this blog is about to flip to 6,000.

With that milestone comes a deeper level of vulnerability. In some ways, it feels like the very beginning all over again. I’m reminded of the advice I once gave my oldest son when he was a young boy preparing to proclaim Scripture in our house of worship. I told him if he imagined everyone in the congregation without clothes, he’d be just fine.

Today, it feels like the roles are reversed.

I’m the one standing here, metaphorically unclothed, sharing honestly from the heart. And strangely, there’s peace in that. Scripture reminds us, “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18). Showing up consistently—imperfect but willing—has become one of those actions.

If you stop by tomorrow, thank you. If you’ve been here since the beginning, thank you. And if you’ve joined somewhere along the way, thank you for walking with me. If you decide to comment at the end of the story, I promise to listen and engage. 

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Jim—sorry—Michael, exposing your soul to the universe again?”
Spock: “An illogical fear, Doctor. Authenticity has proven statistically effective.”

Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that growth often requires standing in the open without armor. Writing daily has taught me that courage isn’t loud—it’s consistent. One honest entry at a time, the fear loosens its grip, and peace takes its place.

How Do You Fit in God's Kingdom?

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Stardate 01.20.2026

I’ve heard all the arguments—pro and con—about worshiping in a church versus not worshiping in a church. Many of those arguments are rooted in feelings. And I get that. Isn’t that how we live most of our lives? If something feels right, we do it. Over time, habits form.

I’ve been on both sides of the fence when it comes to how I worship. More on that in a couple of days, when I celebrate my 6,000th blog story and peel away the last layer of the onion. Today’s question is directed at you—and how you fit in… or maybe don’t feel like you fit in at all.

Have you ever felt like something was missing in your life?
I have.

In my younger days, I believed I needed to control everything in order to get ahead. My sense of purpose was measured by possessions. Sadly, acquiring more stuff didn’t solve the problem. What followed was a season of letting go. I had mixed feelings about it, but I trusted my gut that peace might eventually find me.

It didn’t happen overnight.

Finding your purpose may be one of life’s longest journeys.

One of the greatest discoveries I’ve made is this: I am created in God’s image—and God loves me. Truly loves me. God wants me. And He wants you. Sending His only Son to die for you and me so that we can be with Him forever is the greatest act of love you will ever find in the universe.

When you truly understand that, worship no longer feels like a command.
It becomes a response.

It’s like wanting to be with your family and break bread together—especially after being away from home for a long time. That’s where I find myself today. And the quiet certainty in my heart confirms it.

I’m home.

How about you?

Yes, it’s true—you can worship God anywhere. He is everywhere. He hears you wherever you are. But keep this in mind: there may be others who are struggling to find where they belong. Your presence in a house of worship might help someone else find their way.

There is a special power when people come together to worship. Something happens in community that doesn’t always happen alone.

As you consider ways to make this new year one of your best ever, think about where—and with whom—you’re walking your faith journey.

Have a great day.

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📖 Encouraging Scripture
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.”
— Ephesians 2:19

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “You’re saying people don’t need to be forced—they need to feel like they belong.”
Spock: “Correct, Doctor. Belonging precedes commitment. This appears to be a universal truth.”
Bones: “Funny how love does what rules never could.”
Spock: “Indeed. Love is… highly persuasive.”

Michael’s Log:
I’ve learned that God doesn’t ask me to fit into His Kingdom by shrinking myself. He invites me to come home as I am—and then lets love do the transforming. Maybe our job isn’t to decide who belongs, but to leave the door open and the light on.

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🙏 Closing Reflection
Thank You, Lord, for making room for all of us in Your Kingdom. Help us recognize where we belong—and help us be a welcoming presence for those still finding their way home.

First Fruits

Stardate 01.19.2026

Two brothers, Cain and Abel, brought offerings to God. Abel brought the firstborn of his flock. Cain brought fruit from the ground. One gift was accepted, and the other was not. That moment—recorded in Genesis 4:3–8—set the stage for the first murder, when Cain allowed jealousy to take root and killed his brother.

I don’t fully understand why God accepted one offering and rejected the other, but I sense it had less to do with the gift itself and more to do with what was going on inside the human heart. Abel brought his first fruits. Cain brought something. Perhaps Cain’s heart simply wasn’t in it.

That story challenges me.

As for me, I’m doing my best to make sure God is first in everything I do—including the gifts I offer. That’s why I’m placing the very first copy of Where in the World is Wilson? into a time capsule that will be sealed inside our house of worship for future generations. Marcie, our director of religious education, is currently collecting contributions from our youth to include in that same capsule.

While that first copy won’t be seen again for many years, my hope is far more immediate. I’m working toward delivering enough coloring books so that every patient who wants one at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital can have one when the book officially launches in a couple of months—on St. Patrick’s Day.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 25:40:

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

My prayer is that this small coloring book bears great fruit for children and families who are seeking comfort, hope, and a reminder that they are seen.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “It appears, Bones, that first offerings carry a significance beyond the material.”
Bones: “Spock, I’ve always said it’s the heart that counts… and apparently the timing too!”

Reflecting on that, I’m reminded that when we offer our very best to God and others—whether a first copy of a book, a coloring book for a child, or simply our attention and care—we’re planting seeds. Some may grow slowly, some unseen, but they all have the potential to bear great fruit. It’s a small act of faith with a ripple far beyond what we can measure.

Have a great day.

One Percent Better Coaching

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Stardate 01.18.2026

I truly believe the best person equipped to coach you is yourself.

Think about it for a moment. Who is there when you’re down in the dumps—when hope feels thin, money is tight, and opportunity seems nowhere in sight? The hard truth is this: most of the time, it’s nobody but you.

Before you push back on that idea, hear me out.

Yes, there are people who have walked the road before you. Mentors, teachers, friends—they matter, and their wisdom can change a life. But that part of the story is finite. You are the one constant in your own life. You’ll be with you longer than anyone else ever will.

You know your patterns. You know your fears. You know when you’re avoiding growth—and when you’re quietly rising. Parents can guide you, but they won’t always be here. Friends may come and go. If you learn how to coach yourself, you gain an ally who never leaves, no matter how hard life gets.

So if you decide to hire yourself as your own life coach, start small.

Adopt one idea and make it your own. You’ve seen it here before: aim to be one percent better today than you were yesterday.

The first time you try this, you may feel lost. You may fail. That’s not a flaw in the process—that is the process. Failure means you’re attempting something new, and something new is always better than repeating the same patterns that kept you stuck.

Fail often. Learn continuously. Coach yourself with patience instead of judgment. Over time, those one-percent gains compound into real change—quiet, steady, and lasting.

“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
— Proverbs 21:5

Near the end of the journey, it’s rarely the dramatic leaps we’re grateful for. It’s the small, faithful steps that carried us when motivation ran low and hope needed time to catch up.

Join me here: https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Incremental improvement remains the most efficient path to sustainable progress.”
Bones: “In plain English, Spock—just don’t quit on yourself.”

Michael: I’ve learned that waiting for someone else to rescue me only delayed my growth. Coaching myself—especially on the hard days—taught me resilience, humility, and hope. One percent better doesn’t feel dramatic, but it’s how real change shows up in a life.

Thank you for sharing this moment with me today. May this thought stay with you quietly—an encouragement to be patient with yourself, courageous in your effort, and faithful in small steps—as you carry it into prayer or reflection.

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Reclaiming My Writing Mojo

Stardate 01.17.2026

I’m taking a victory lap today. It's a quiet celebration for surviving a difficult time in my life. While I’m keeping the details private, let's just say the wheels were falling off in multiple areas of my life.

I sought help. At first, the requests were unanswered. I became more desperate.

The one thing that didn’t stop was showing up here daily on this blog — even when this darkness moved in like storm clouds signaling danger ahead. I was stuck for too long.

Today, I’m celebrating the positivity that has returned. It’s not forced. It didn’t return overnight. I simply kept moving forward until the sun came out.

Today I’m reclaiming my writing mojo. I feel like a surfer who learned to ride the big wave. This one I’m on now is the big kahuna.

For those of you who know about my personal life, no, the storm is not over — I’m just learning how to dance in the rain. Surely, there will be more storms in the future.

Thank you for your support. Have a great day.

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📖 Scripture Guidance
"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." — Isaiah 40:31

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “It appears you’ve reacquired your verbal propulsion, Doctor.”
Bones: “Don’t get carried away, Spock. He’s just surfing the big one without wiping out… yet.”

Michael’s reflection: Some victories are quiet, almost invisible. I’m learning to honor each step forward, no matter how small it seems to the world. Even when the storm hasn’t passed, celebrating these moments reminds me I’m still moving — and that’s enough.

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Join me here: https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

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📝 Mission Log
Today’s reminder: It’s okay to celebrate the quiet victories. Keep showing up. Keep moving forward. Your resilience is a light for others.

With gratitude,
Michael

How Wilson Helped Me Overcome My Writer's Block

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Stardate 01.16.2026

Writer’s block can feel like being stuck in mud — or worse, sinking into quicksand with no clear way out. When it hits hard, fear whispers that the words may never come again. I know that feeling well.

There were three defining moments when Wilson showed up just when I needed help breaking free.

The first came while I was struggling to write Live Long and Prosper. I started that book before I had enough life material to support it. Chapter after chapter ended up in the trash. I knew what I wanted to say, but I couldn’t find the right ingredients to say it honestly.

That’s when Wilson appeared — unexpectedly — during a shift at my day job. When no one came forward to claim him, I asked permission to adopt him. That simple yes changed everything.

For nearly five years, Wilson and I traveled together. He became an unexpected invitation. Strangers would stop, smile, ask questions, and then — almost without fail — begin sharing their stories. Those conversations now live on in The Adventures of Castaway Wilson.

Something remarkable happened along the way. As Wilson’s story flowed, Live Long and Prosper came back to life. What once felt forced began to move like manna from heaven. The second book unlocked the first.

Then came the pandemic. The momentum stalled. And eventually, Wilson disappeared from my life altogether.

Until Ireland.

While my wife and I were on a pilgrimage, my friend Bob — walking ahead along a river — suddenly shouted,
“Michael, it’s Wilson!”

There, floating swiftly down the river, was a red volleyball heading out to sea.

I was stunned. What were the odds?

In that moment, clarity returned. What if I hadn’t really lost Wilson? What if the adventure continued — even without custody? As I watched him drift away, a new vision formed: a coloring book capturing all the places Wilson might be now.

Just like that, the block was gone.

Wilson is still with me — in spirit, in story, and soon on the page again. Where in the World Is Wilson? will be the third project launched on St. Patrick’s Day, my favorite day of the year.

I tip my hat to Helen M. Swearson, the artist who arrived at exactly the right time and helped bring Wilson’s new journey to life — all for the children at our local hospital.

The wait is almost over.

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📖 Scripture

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.”
— Ephesians 3:20

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Fascinating. It appears creativity thrives when control is relinquished.”
Bones: “You mean when the universe stops arguing and starts cooperating.”

Michael’s Reflection:
Looking back, I see that every time I tried to force the story, it stalled. When I trusted the journey instead, the words found me. Wilson didn’t just help me write — he reminded me to stay open to wonder.

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🌱 Closing Reflection

Today, I’m grateful for the unexpected companions God places in our path — and for the gentle reminders that even when something drifts away, its purpose may just be beginning. May you notice the quiet invitations waiting for you today.

Why I Started a Substack

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Stardate 01.15.2026

Good morning, friends,

Social media is great, but it’s rented space — posts get lost, algorithms change, and meaningful connection can disappear. I wanted a place just for us. My Substack newsletter delivers reflections, updates, and encouragement straight to your inbox — simple, clean, and judgment-free.

Every step we take together also supports the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Connection is rare and precious, and this space gives me a way to stay in touch, encourage growth, and make an impact — one step, one email, one day at a time.

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “Connection thrives in spaces designed for purpose.”
Bones: “Finally, a place where my words matter.”

Michael’s Reflection: Substack is that place for us — a simple, reliable way to stay connected, share encouragement, and take meaningful next steps.

Join me here: https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

When F's Are Not Failing Grades

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Stardate 01.14.2026

Have there ever been moments in your life when you were so close to the trees that you couldn’t see the forest? In my writing life, that’s exactly what I’m noticing now through the rearview mirror.

I find myself standing in the middle of a vast, magical forest — one that represents my writing projects — all quietly connected by the letter F.

Any student will tell you an F is something to fear. I’ve learned to embrace it.

It reminds me of my freezing-cold early morning showers. I absolutely hate them. Yet every morning, I step in before the water gets warm. Why? Because I know what’s coming next — hours of clarity, energy, and joy from endorphins dancing inside my head.

Looking back, I’ve noticed a quiet pattern running through my books. Each one seems to explore a different way we learn to live more fully — through forgiveness, through faith, through the friends we meet along the way, and through moments of simple fun.

I didn’t plan it this way. I just kept writing the story in front of me.

Here’s how I eventually discovered the common thread:

Forgiveness — my first book, a memoir honoring my father
Finding Jesus — a novel rooted in spiritual awakening
Food, Finances, and Faith — Live Long and Prosper
Friends — The Adventures of Castaway Wilson
Fun — Where in the World Is Wilson?

Without giving away any details about what comes next after the birth of this Irish triplet in March, I’ll offer one small sneak peek. A couple more F’s are beginning to take shape in the forest — family and fitness.

For now, though, I’m content to stay right here. To enjoy the fun. To share this moment with you as I prepare to deliver my first coloring book, beautifully illustrated by my day-job teammate, Helen M. Swearson.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum 🖖

Bones: “Michael, I’m a doctor, not a guidance counselor… but maybe some grades aren’t meant to be feared.”
Spock: “Indeed, Doctor. Logic suggests that repeated patterns often indicate purpose rather than failure.”
Michael: “That’s what I’m learning. Some lessons only make sense once you stop grading yourself and start paying attention.”

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Scripture for the Journey

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
— Romans 8:28

Defining Moments in Mulligan's Magical Forest

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Stardate 01.13.2026

Family confidentiality prohibits me from sharing certain details behind the scenes, but I want to take a moment to express how grateful I am for all the support my prayer warriors have been giving me these past couple of months. Every prayer has been answered, and I feel blessed beyond measure. The photo you see above features the newest addition to the magical forest, a wind chime given to me by Tina, one of my day job teammates who volunteers as my chief of staff for our fundraising projects.  A couple of days ago our day job team came together at Texas Roadhouse to celebrate another amazing year. The team humored me with a tribute to my super hero, Spock. The hand gesture, rooted in the Old Testament, is meant to be a blessing. Indeed, this has been a fascinating year of growth for all of us. I chose to place the wind chime indoors in my home studio as the high winds outdoors might break the fragile glass. Thank you, Tina.

Sometimes, I seek comfort in the magical forest, a place where my imagination can run wild and where creativity feels limitless. Today marks a defining moment in the magical forest: I’m now developing vlogs using my new technology upgrades. Please be patient as I introduce these video messages — I’m still learning the ropes of production, but my goal is to bring the stories and messages you love to life in new ways.

Your feedback will help me improve the quality of the videos. Every tweak, every adjustment, is part of my 1% better mindset — steady, daily improvement that compounds over time. I hope to continue growing this magical forest with you and would love to hear what you’d like to see in the coming months.

I’m grateful for the ongoing support of our partner, DoNotAge, which helps me focus on creating content that uplifts and inspires. Their support allows me to explore these new creative avenues while staying true to my mission of sharing hope and purpose.

Scripture:
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." – Proverbs 16:3

Captain’s Addendum:
Spock & Bones Banter:
Bones: “I still don’t understand why you insist on video when words have served us well.”
Spock: “Logic dictates that expansion of mediums increases outreach efficiency.”

Michael’s Reflection:
I realize that growth sometimes requires stepping outside comfort zones. Just like in the forest, we can explore new paths, experiment, and embrace small improvements. Each video, each new attempt, is a chance to connect more deeply and creatively.

Closing Reflection:
Today, I invite you to consider your own “magical forest” — a place where your ideas, hopes, and prayers can grow. Take one small step forward today, and remember: growth is a journey, not a race.

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Irish Triplet Check-in

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Stardate 01.12.2026

Today, I want to offer a heartfelt shout-out to Helen M. Swearson, one of my day-job teammates who generously donated her free time to serve as the artist for my first coloring book.

Where in the World Is Wilson? is now in its final trimester. I ordered an ultrasound from Amazon early this morning to check on the progress. While there were a few complications early on, this may turn out to be the smoothest delivery of the Irish triplets yet.

If you’ve been following the journey of the Irish twins — Live Long and Prosper (born Stardate 03.17.2024) and The Adventures of Castaway Wilson (born Stardate 03.17.2025) — consider this your official progress report. Yes, this third book is on track to launch on St. Patrick’s Day, marking three consecutive years of storytelling, faith, and purpose.

This project would not exist without Helen from my day job stepping in at a critical moment in my life.

Helen is one of those rare people who carries a quiet but powerful heart for helping others. From the beginning, this coloring book was meant to be a source of comfort for children at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital — a gentle continuation of Wilson’s story after we were separated.

Readers kept asking the same question:

“Where’s Wilson?”

The coffee table book offered a clue.

While traveling in Ireland, a red volleyball appeared in a river beside an Irish castle — not far from where the Blarney Stone rests. I was tempted to jump in and rescue it, but the current was too strong. Instead, I watched as it floated downstream and disappeared into the sea.

That’s when it hit me.

What if Wilson didn’t disappear?
What if he kept going?

From that moment on, I began imagining all the places Wilson might have traveled since I last saw him. Helen helped bring those ideas to life, turning imagination into illustrations. Soon, you’ll get to see Wilson’s newest adventures — and I must say, his life has turned out to be rather extraordinary.

Helen has been sharing her drawings with family members, and Wilson has quickly become their favorite character. That tells me everything I need to know.

I’ll be sharing more about Helen as we move closer to the launch. While each book in this Irish trio is unique, they all share a common purpose: raising funds for our local children’s hospital. There are also anonymous supporters quietly working behind the scenes, helping make this mission possible.

I promised Helen she will be well rewarded for her contributions — and I wouldn’t be surprised if the world gets to know her name one day.

Stay tuned.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum 🖖

Bones: “Michael, I’m a doctor, not a children’s book critic… but even I know when a story has heart.”
Spock: “Indeed, Doctor. Logic suggests that stories rooted in compassion tend to travel far — much like this… Wilson.”
Michael: “That’s the part that still amazes me. What started as loss turned into legacy. Sometimes letting go is exactly what allows a story to grow.”

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Scripture for the Journey

“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”
— Proverbs 11:25

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Mission Reflection

Thank you for walking this journey with me — for believing in small ideas, shared hearts, and stories that keep going even when we can’t see where they land. May this encourage you to trust that what you release with love never truly disappears.

🖖 Live long. Prosper in purpose. Walk boldly in divine love.

Travel Reward Ahead

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Stardate 01.11.2026

Some of my friends on the West Coast have a hard time understanding how someone who grew up in the Valley of the Sun in Phoenix could thrive after moving to Iowa — especially during harsh winters.

What they sometimes forget is that I spent many years in Ramona, California, another place often referred to as a valley of the sun. That’s where we raised our family before moving to Iowa fourteen years ago.

My response is simple.

When you live in places that don’t challenge you, it’s easy to take things for granted. I deeply appreciate pleasant weather. And when the weather isn’t pleasant, I do my best to adapt to my surroundings rather than resent them.

One trick that’s served me well is giving myself rewards for making it through difficult seasons.

My first travel reward of the new year is now about a month away. We’re headed to Florida for some much-needed Vitamin D restoration. I dream about it each morning when I wake up — and again while I’m shoveling snow off the driveway.

I know people who refuse to take vacations even when their employers offer time off. As much as I enjoy my day job, I owe it to myself — and my family — to step away and recharge.

One advantage of living in the heartland of America is proximity to great travel destinations. I also count my blessings that the cost of living in my hometown allows room for experiences beyond just getting by.

If travel isn’t part of your goals for the new year, today might be a good day to reconsider. When you tie a reward to your goals, it becomes a powerful incentive to stay focused and finish strong.

Seasons pass.
Rewards matter.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: You left sunshine twice and still sound grateful about it?
Spock: Gratitude is not location-dependent, Doctor. It is a practiced discipline.
Bones: I’m beginning to suspect vacations are his coping mechanism.
Spock: Anticipated rest increases perseverance during hardship.
Bones: Fine. I’ll admit it — that’s just good medicine.
Spock: Your agreement has been duly noted.

Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that God doesn’t ask us to endure difficult seasons without hope. Sometimes faith looks like showing up faithfully — and sometimes it looks like putting a trip on the calendar and trusting that rest is part of the plan.

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Scripture for the Journey

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
— Ecclesiastes 3:1

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Mission Log

Status: Persevering with perspective
Objective: Honor work, welcome rest
Reminder: Hope makes endurance lighter

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Thank you for sharing this season with me.
May God help you endure what’s hard, appreciate what’s good, and look forward with hope to the joy waiting ahead — one percent better, one day at a time.

New Year Safety Check

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Stardate 01.10.2026

What’s the first thing you do after putting new tires on your vehicle?
I hope the answer is a return visit to the shop for a safety check.

The same principle applies to the goals you set ten days ago.

A quick safety check today can help ensure those goals stay with you for the rest of the year. Do this well, and you’re not just investing in 2026 — you’re creating something solid to build on for years to come.

Start by checking to see if your goals are written down. Just like regular oil changes every 3,000 miles, you need something you can return to — a reference point to measure progress and make adjustments along the way.

This simple check-in can remove small hindrances before they grow into real obstacles. It keeps you aligned, steady, and moving forward.

Whatever you do today, please don’t give up.

You still have 355 days left in this new year. Promise yourself you’ll do something each day — no matter how small — to move closer to what you’re aiming for. I recommend a personal safety check every 30 days. It’s a great way to spot trouble early, long before it becomes a road hazard.

One percent better is how journeys last.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: You’re telling me people set big goals and then just… never check on them again?
Spock: That is statistically accurate, Doctor. Initial enthusiasm often declines without reinforcement.
Bones: Sounds like skipping follow-up appointments.
Spock: An apt comparison. Preventive measures yield better outcomes than emergency repairs.
Bones: So this is maintenance, not punishment?
Spock: Precisely.
Bones: Huh. I might actually approve of that.

Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that progress doesn’t require intensity — it requires attention. When I pause to check in, God often shows me small course corrections that make a big difference over time.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”
— Lamentations 3:40

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Mission Log

Status: Systems checked
Objective: Stay aligned, not perfect
Reminder: Small adjustments prevent major breakdowns

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Thank you for taking a moment to pause and reflect today.
May God grant you clarity, patience, and steady resolve as you continue forward — one careful, faithful step at a time.

Is Today a Good Day to Turn Off Cruise Control in Your Brain?

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Stardate 01.09.2026

It’s day nine of the new year.
How’s it going so far?

Does it feel fresh and hopeful — or is it starting to resemble a rerun of mistakes from years past? If it’s the latter, today might be a good day to look under the hood and run a few diagnostics.

That’s not easy. Our brains prefer consistency. Sometimes that’s a gift — especially when we’ve built solid habits that move us toward long-term goals. Other times, consistency keeps us stuck. The hardest changes usually involve rewiring the mental pathways connected to old, unhelpful habits.

Your brain may already be pushing back as you read this. That’s normal.

If you feel the urge to stop reading and move on, you’re actually on the right path. Awareness is the first sign that cruise control has been engaged. If cruise control wins out completely, nothing changes. But if you override old programming, don’t be surprised when your brain challenges you every step of the way.

One helpful exercise is to write down everything you want to accomplish in the next twelve months. Put that list somewhere you’ll see it every day. Let it remind you that you want different results — and that you’re willing to do something about it.

For me, overriding cruise control doesn’t happen in a single day or even a single month. I aim for one percent better each day. I also measure results and keep better records, because I’ve learned my own brain can be very persuasive when it wants to return to familiar routines.

If you truly want 2026 to be different, imagine where you could be if you won the battle in your head and followed through on the changes you’re dreaming about.

Avoid the temptation to put things off.
It’s already day nine.

If you had a false start, this is your moment to begin again.

Manual override takes effort — but it works.

I’m cheering for you.
Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: Let me get this straight — the problem isn’t the engine, it’s the driver refusing to touch the wheel?
Spock: An accurate assessment, Doctor. Human autopilot favors familiarity over improvement.
Bones: That explains a lot… including most of my patients.
Spock: Change requires conscious intervention. Without it, repetition is inevitable.
Bones: You mean there’s no shortcut?
Spock: None that are sustainable.
Bones: I hate sustainable.
Spock: Your objection has been logged.

Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that God invites us to participate in our own renewal. Grace gives us strength, but we still have to reach for the controls. One percent better is how I honor that partnership — gently, honestly, and consistently.

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Scripture for the Journey

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2

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Mission Log

Status: Manual override engaged
Objective: Renew the mind, one choice at a time
Reminder: Progress beats perfection

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Thank you for showing up today.
May God give you clarity, courage, and patience as you take the next small step forward — and may that step lead you closer to the life you’re being invited to live.

Do You Suffer From Artificial Constraint Syndrome (ACS)?

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Stardate 01.08.2026

Circus elephants don’t really belong in the circus.
They’re meant to roam freely in wide, open spaces — not in confined rings under bright lights.

To keep them captive, handlers often secure them as babies with a chain spiked into the ground. At that age, the elephants aren’t strong enough to break free. Over time, something tragic happens. They grow into massive, powerful animals — yet they never test the chain again.

They don’t even try.

They believe they can’t break free.

Does that sound familiar?

I know it does to me.

I’ve come to recognize something I call Artificial Constraint Syndrome — false barriers created in our own minds. Limits we accepted early on. Stories we were told. Conclusions we drew when we were still “too small” to know better.

For a long time, those invisible chains shaped my choices.

Then something changed.

I adopted a new approach: I started questioning everything. I stopped automatically accepting what authorities, systems, or even my own fears preached. Instead, I began running my own experiments — testing what works, what doesn’t, and what actually leads to peace, strength, and purpose.

The results have been stunning — physically, emotionally, spiritually.

It turns out the chain was never strong enough to hold me.

I was the baby elephant who simply hadn’t realized his strength yet.

Today feels like a good day to start removing artificial constraints from your own life. Not all at once. Not dramatically. Just one percent at a time.

That’s how real freedom begins.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: You’re telling me the biggest animal in the room stayed stuck because of a memory?
Spock: Correct, Doctor. The constraint was psychological, not physical.
Bones: Huh. Sounds uncomfortably human.
Spock: Indeed. Humans are particularly skilled at limiting themselves long after the danger has passed.
Bones: So what’s the cure?
Spock: Awareness… followed by action.
Bones: I hate it when you’re right.
Spock: Your emotional response is noted.

Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that God doesn’t place chains on us — fear does. Grace invites us to test what we once assumed was impossible. Freedom often begins the moment we realize the chain no longer has authority over us.

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Scripture for the Journey

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
— Galatians 5:1

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Mission Log

Status: Unlearning false limits
Objective: Replace fear with truth, one percent at a time
Reminder: Growth doesn’t require force — just courage and faith

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Thank you for sharing this moment with me.
May God gently reveal any quiet chains you’ve been carrying — and give you the courage to test them, one small step at a time.

Meet the Artist Who Helped Give Wilson New Life – Helen M Swearson

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Stardate 01.07.2026

Some people quietly walk among us doing the work of angels.
Helen M. Swearson is one of them.

Helen has worked alongside me at our day job for many years. One day, out of nowhere, she surprised me with a drawing of my first superhero, Mr. Spock—complete with perfectly pointed ears. I was stunned.

“How long have you been drawing?” I asked.

“Since I was five years old,” she replied.

Helen already knew about my book, Live Long and Prosper. She told me her dad, may his soul rest in peace, was a preacher and he was a huge Star Trek fan. What Helen didn’t know was that I had been searching for a way to create a fully illustrated coloring book for the sick kids at University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Like many meaningful projects, the idea had stalled—life intervened, and heartbreak followed. Wilson was lost when my dear friend Erin passed away while caring for him in New York City.

Still, hope has a way of resurfacing.

I asked Helen if she might be willing to contribute a few drawings of Wilson for a new project called Where in the World Is Wilson?—a coloring book designed to entertain children and gently teach them about disease.

I explained, “My team is made up of volunteers who simply want to help sick kids. All proceeds from book sales go directly to the hospital.”

Helen didn’t hesitate. She got busy.

What I expected to be a few pages became a full collection of thoughtful, joyful drawings—Wilson encouraging kids, bringing smiles, and helping them feel a little less alone. Who knows? Maybe some of the funds raised will even help our local hospital move closer to a cure for cancer.

No matter what happens, these children will be inspired by Helen’s art.

Other volunteers have stepped forward to help with marketing and distribution. Our international sponsor, DoNotAge, is watching our progress. Momentum is building—not because of ambition, but because of shared compassion.

You’ll see Helen’s drawings when Where in the World Is Wilson? launches on Amazon on Stardate 03.17.2026.

And if you’re in need of a freelance artist, I’d encourage you to reach out to Helen now—before she becomes world famous and her rates skyrocket.

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A Word That Anchors This Moment

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
— Galatians 6:9

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Artist Bio

Helen M. Swearson has been drawing since she was five years old. Her parents, Carl and Georgianna Swearson, remain a constant source of inspiration. She dreams of one day moving to Canada to be with her beloved husband, Jarrod Sharman. Until then, she happily works at Costco Wholesale while pursuing freelance art on the side.

📩 Contact Helen: Helenmswearson@gmail.com

Thank you, Helen. May you live long and prosper.

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Captain’s Addendum

Spock: “It is only logical that talent paired with compassion produces meaningful outcomes.”
Bones: “You mean heart matters, Spock—even when logic shows up late to the party.”

Michael: Watching this project come to life reminded me that purpose often arrives through people who simply say yes. Helen didn’t ask what she’d gain—she asked how she could help. That kind of generosity restores more than lost volleyballs; it restores hope.

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Thank you, my friends, for walking with me today. May this story settle quietly into your heart and accompany you into prayer or reflection—wherever your day leads next.

What a Servant Sees

 

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Stardate 01.06.2026

There was a heated argument among some of the first followers of Jesus about who among them was the greatest. Jesus baffled them when He said, “The greatest among you is the one who serves.”

I understand this message firsthand.

If you want to know what’s really going on in a company, ask the secretary.
If you want to see what others overlook, try volunteering.

There’s a wealth of insight at the servant level—intel many leaders never see unless they intentionally step down from the spotlight and listen.

The same is true when it comes to faith.

In my experience, many of the challenges houses of worship face have less to do with belief and more to do with belonging. People feel left out. Disconnected. Some are angry about what’s happening, but they don’t know how to express it—especially if they feel leadership is part of the problem.

One of the most helpful lessons I’ve learned about fitting in came through Bible studies and small faith communities—groups that exist within the larger church but feel more personal. Retreats have also played a role. When volunteers walk alongside people and help them find their way, something important happens: walls come down, and healing begins.

Servants see what systems miss.

So if you happen to be in a leadership position, spend time with the servants. Sit with them. Listen. You may discover the very solutions you’ve been searching for.

And if you happen to be a servant, don’t underestimate your perspective. Speak up when the time is right. Your voice matters more than you know.

Have a great day.

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📖 Encouraging Scripture
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
— Mark 10:43

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “You know, Spock, every time humans argue about rank, somebody forgets who’s doing the real work.”
Spock: “An accurate observation, Doctor. Service provides data unavailable from positions of authority.”
Bones: “In plain English—get your hands dirty.”
Spock: “Precisely.”

Michael’s Log:
I’ve learned that clarity often comes from below, not above. When I choose to serve instead of striving, I see people more clearly—and myself more honestly. That’s where God tends to meet me.

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🙏 Closing Reflection
Lord, teach us to see through the eyes of a servant. Help us listen more than we speak, serve more than we seek recognition, and remember that true greatness is found in love expressed through action.

How Many Rooms are in God's Kingdom?

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Stardate 01.05.2026

Jesus tells us He is preparing a house with many rooms for us. I find it hard to believe His Kingdom will need more than 45,000 rooms. And yet, that estimate reflects the number of Christian denominations alone.

I once read a story about a man stranded on a deserted island for many years. When he was finally rescued, they noticed he had built three huts. Curious, they asked him about them.

“This first hut is my home,” he said.
“The second hut is my church.”
“And the third?” they asked.
“Oh,” he replied, “that’s where I used to worship.”

Yikes.

We humans have always struggled to figure out how we fit in. When disagreements arise, our instinct is often not to listen longer—but to divide quicker. Over time, those divisions hardened into denominations.

The last time humanity was truly united was in the Garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve walked and spoke directly with God. There were no churches because God was present. No structures were needed. No labels required.

The division began when paradise was lost.

From there, the story unfolded slowly. God chose a people. Covenants were made. Laws were given. Prophets were sent. Eventually, Jesus arrived—not to create a new religion, but to restore relationship. His prayer was simple and bold: that we would be one.

But after Jesus ascended, even the early Church wrestled with disagreement. Cultural differences, theological questions, and human pride crept in. The first major split came between East and West. Centuries later, the Reformation fractured the Church further, as reformers sought to correct corruption and return to Scripture. Each split was often born from sincere conviction—but still resulted in separation.

None of this surprised God.

I sometimes wonder if the dark side had a hand in it. After all, divide and conquer has always been an effective strategy. If we can be separated from one another, it becomes easier to forget we belong to God—and to each other.

Yet here’s the hopeful truth: denominations may separate us organizationally, but they do not separate us spiritually. We share the same foundation—Christ. We drink from the same living water. We are baptized into the same love.

Maybe heaven doesn’t have 45,000 rooms after all.
Maybe it’s one house… with a lot of open doors.

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📖 Encouraging Scripture
“There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.”
— Ephesians 4:4–6

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Jim—sorry, Michael—you’re telling me all these divisions were caused by humans?”
Spock: “Doctor, history confirms humans excel at disagreement, even when unity is logical.”
Bones: “And yet God keeps inviting us all home.”
Spock: “Indeed. The invitation appears… universal.”

Michael’s Log:
I don’t believe God is tallying denominations at the door. I believe He’s looking at hearts. Maybe our calling isn’t to decide which room is right—but to remember we’re all in the same house.

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🙏 Closing Reflection
Thank You, Lord, for a Kingdom bigger than our labels and a love wider than our disagreements. Help us see one another as family again—and walk toward unity with humility, grace, and courage.

How Old is Too Old to Join the Gym?

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Stardate 01.04.2026

We all carry ideas about the aging process.
Mine have changed dramatically over time — mostly because my original thinking was deeply flawed.

For years, I didn’t understand how the standard American diet was quietly shortening lives. I also believed the gym was reserved for the young. Somewhere along the way, a light bulb went off. I realized my own self-limiting beliefs were preventing me from seeing new possibilities — even in our senior years.

Buckle your seatbelts.

My mother has been cleared by her doctor to join the gym, and she’s going all in at 86 years old.

If you know her current state of health, you might be thinking the gym is the last place she should be. But in my experience, there are few people on this planet as determined as my mother. She’s about to prove that the best place for her right now is the gym.

Decades ago, Mom had her left knee replaced. Now her right knee is giving her trouble, but she refuses another replacement because the recovery time would slow her down too much. Instead, she’s opted to try injections to help with the reduced cartilage that causes intense pain.

Despite that pain, she’s already walking up and down hills several times a week.

Her goal is simple and powerful: to walk long distances without pain.

Her gym routine will focus on balance, stability, strength, and water aerobics — all designed to support mobility and confidence. She’s also given full permission for me to document her journey.

Her reward for reaching her fitness goals?
A trip across the pond with family in late September.

She’s already hit her first milestone: replacing her walker with a cane. The walker was too bulky for the kind of travel we’ll be doing in nine months. This is one percent better in real time.

If you believe 86 is too old to join the gym, stay tuned.

Mom also has a quiet secret weapon. After asking about my supplement stack — one I’ve used for years — she decided to try a couple of my top choices. She didn’t notice much at first, but after about thirty days, she reported increased energy and sharper concentration.

My friends at DoNotAge are aware of her fitness goals and are excited to support someone in her age group. Mom is currently using NMN and Resveratrol, which appear to work synergistically when taken together. I originally discovered this company while researching for Live Long and Prosper, where my full stack is listed.

If you explore supplements on your own, be sure to use a company that actually sells what’s on the label — this industry is largely unregulated.

We’ll be sharing monthly updates on Mom’s progress.

Have a great day.

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Captain’s Addendum

Bones: Eighty-six and joining a gym? Jim—
Spock: Michael, Doctor. Accuracy matters.
Bones: Right, right. Michael. Still… most people her age are negotiating with recliners.
Spock: Her behavior is not illogical. Progressive movement improves stability, cognition, and resilience.
Bones: I’ll admit it — that kind of grit gives me hope. Just don’t tell her I said that.
Spock: Your odds of secrecy remain… unfavorable.

Michael’s Reflection:
Watching my mother reminds me that growth doesn’t stop when the calendar says it should. It stops when we decide we’re done trying. One percent better doesn’t care about age — only willingness.

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Scripture for the Journey

“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.”
— Isaiah 46:4

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Mission Log

Status: Inspired by courage
Objective: Encourage movement, hope, and dignity at every age
Reminder: One percent better is always within reach

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Thank you for walking this journey with me.
May this story stir hope — and maybe even a little courage — in whatever step God is inviting you to take next.

League Match on Home Courts at High Noon Today

Stardate 01.03.2026

Our men’s 4.0 tennis team in the 40+ division steps onto the courts today hoping to keep an undefeated season alive as we play our first league match of 2026—right here at home, at high noon.

A couple of my teammates have affectionately nicknamed me Grandpa. I take it as a compliment. I’m grateful they’re still keeping me around, racket and all. The truth is, the older I get, the more clearly I see how the simple disciplines matter: eating right, sleeping right, moving my body with intention. Even rest—real rest—has become part of the training plan.

Tennis has a way of revealing what we already know but sometimes ignore. You can’t fake conditioning. You can’t rush recovery. You can’t will your body past what you’ve neglected. Growth comes from steady habits, not heroic bursts.

If you’re in the Iowa City area today, come cheer on the home team at North Dodge Athletic Club. Win or lose, we’ll show up, compete hard, and enjoy the gift of being able to play at all.

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📖 Encouraging Scripture
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…? Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
— 1 Corinthians 6:19–20

Not out of pressure.
Out of gratitude.

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🖖 Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “Michael, you realize we’re not twenty-five anymore. Bones don’t bounce like they used to.”
Spock: “Doctor, while your observation is emotionally charged, it is logically sound. Maintenance increases longevity.”
Bones: “You hear that, Michael? He called it maintenance.”
Spock: “Indeed. Neglecting maintenance is… illogical.”

Michael’s Log:
Somewhere between warm-ups and water breaks, it hit me again: stewardship isn’t glamorous. It’s faithful. Caring for the body God gave me—through food, rest, movement, and restraint—isn’t vanity. It’s obedience. One percent better doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by choosing today what supports tomorrow.

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Mission Log
Status: Active
Objective: Show up prepared, grateful, and present
Lesson Reinforced: Consistency builds endurance—on the court and in life

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🙏 Closing Reflection
Thank you, Lord, for strong bodies, willing hearts, and the humility to pace ourselves. Help us honor You not by perfection, but by faithfulness—one day, one habit, one percent better at a time.