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.
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.”
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
No comments:
Post a Comment