Stardate 02.24.2026
A member approached me wanting to downgrade his membership.
That’s a fairly common request. So I did what I always do — I asked questions.
As we reviewed his spending, something interesting surfaced. His current level of membership was actually saving him money. What began as a downgrade conversation became a value conversation.
Then I asked him what kind of work he does.
He smiled and said, “I’m retiring in three days.”
Three days.
After 25 years of service at the University of Iowa, a chapter of his life is closing.
Retirement isn’t just a calendar date. It’s an identity transition. For decades, you wake up knowing where you are going and what you are responsible for. Then suddenly, that structure changes.
We continued talking. I mentioned the Children’s Hospital and a project close to my heart. He works with someone connected to that mission. She will be at his retirement party.
The conversation deepened.
Then he said something that stayed with me:
“I want to find my purpose when I retire like you have.”
I felt a quiet excitement.
Not because of the compliment.
But because it reminded me of something important.
Purpose is not reserved for the young. It is not limited to a title or a paycheck. It is not something we stumble into by accident.
It is something we choose.
When one chapter closes, another does not automatically open.
We decide how it opens.
If you are facing change — retirement, a job shift, a new season — perhaps the better question is not, “What am I losing?”
Perhaps the better question is:
“What purpose am I willing to pursue next?”
Purpose does not usually arrive in dramatic fashion. It grows in small, intentional decisions. One conversation. One act of service. One thoughtful step forward.
We do not become purposeful all at once.
We become one percent more intentional today than we were yesterday.
“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
The closing of a chapter is not the end of your usefulness.
It may be the beginning of your most meaningful contribution.
Join me here: https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong
Captain’s Addendum
Spock: “It would appear, Doctor, that purpose is not extinguished by retirement.”
Bones: “Retirement doesn’t end a life, Spock. It just changes the assignment.”
Michael’s reflection:
I am learning that identity is not tied to a position. It is tied to calling. When seasons shift, I don’t lose who I am — I’m invited to become more aligned with who I was created to be.
Mission Log
Today’s mission: Face change without fear. Seek purpose with courage. Grow one percent better in intention.
Thank you for walking this journey with me. May today bring clarity to your next chapter and peace to your present one.
🖖 Captain’s Note:
“Our calling is not to write perfect words, but to reveal perfect grace through imperfect moments — one percent better, one day at a time.”
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