Sunday, February 1, 2026

I Got Bested in Scrabble

I Got Bested in Scrabble

Stardate 02.01.2026

I got a surprise phone call yesterday during our family Scrabble day. One of my inner-circle friends called with big news.

He wrote a book.

That’s the hard part. Finishing. He has a manuscript in hand, and I know exactly how that feels. We’re meeting soon in what we affectionately call the magical forest to talk about next steps. Publishing today is changing so fast it can make your head spin—especially for independent publishers like me.

Thankfully, I’ve learned to stay grounded.

My faith has taught me to loosen my grip, to let go, and to let God remain in charge. There’s a quiet peace that comes with realizing I’m not the center of the universe. I don’t have to force outcomes. I don’t have to rush timing. I just have to be faithful with the next small step.

I’m learning—slowly—not to rush things. I’m learning to trust the process.

Writing can be a lonely road at times, which makes it even more meaningful when someone trusts you enough to ask for guidance. I’m genuinely happy for my friend, and honored he reached out.

And while words were being carefully chosen on one front, they were being joyfully deployed on another.

During family Scrabble, I put everything on the table…and still came up short. I was bested by a member of the next generation. It turns out word-smithing runs strong in the family—and among friends too.

I’ll be sure to share a link to my friend’s book when it’s released into the world. For now, I’m grateful for the reminder that growth shows up in many forms: in faith, in friendships, and sometimes on a Scrabble board.

As Scripture gently reminds us:

“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


Captain’s Addendum

Bones: “You lost at Scrabble? Jim, that’s a medical emergency for your ego.”
Spock: “On the contrary, Doctor. It is evidence of generational linguistic evolution.”

Michael’s Reflection:
I didn’t lose anything yesterday. I gained perspective. Faith keeps teaching me that progress isn’t about always winning—it’s about staying present, staying humble, and staying open to learning, even when the lesson comes from someone younger across the table.

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


Mission Log
Today’s lesson is simple: trust the process, celebrate others’ wins, and don’t underestimate the wisdom sitting across from you.

Thank you for walking with me. May you carry a little peace, a little patience, and a little gratitude into your quiet moments today. 🖖

No comments: