When the Training Wheels Come Off

Stardate 06.13.2026

Do you remember the first time you rode a bike without training wheels?

We've all been there.

As I look back on that moment in my own life, I think about who was around me. I remember my cousins running alongside my bike, steadying me as I learned to balance. Then, at some point, they let go. I didn't realize it right away. I was too focused on staying upright and moving forward.

Then I looked back.

I was riding on my own.

Life has a way of repeating itself through different seasons.

I've spent much of my life helping others reach their potential. As a parent, a teammate, a mentor, and a friend, I've often found myself running alongside someone else's bicycle. Sometimes people need encouragement. Sometimes they need instruction. Sometimes they simply need someone who believes they can do something that feels impossible.

Then one day, the training wheels come off.

The person you've been encouraging begins making good decisions without your guidance. The teammate you've been teaching starts helping others. The friend who once needed your support finds their footing and keeps moving forward.

I've discovered this is a gift.

It's the gift of becoming replaceable.

If I've done my job well, I get to be that cousin again—the one standing off to the side, smiling and cheering as someone experiences the freedom of riding on their own.

Many people spend their lives trying to become indispensable. My heart has been drawn in a different direction. I want to teach others so well that they can carry on the mission without me. I want to leave behind confidence, wisdom, and encouragement that continue to ripple outward.

Lately, I've noticed this happening in several areas of my life. Responsibilities are being shared. Others are stepping forward. Projects are continuing without needing my constant attention.

There is joy in watching this unfold.

There is peace in knowing that some of the seeds planted years ago are beginning to bear fruit.

Perhaps one of life's quiet rewards is reaching a season where you can step back and watch someone else discover they can ride on their own.

The Apostle Paul wrote:

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

I think part of that harvest is seeing others become who they were always capable of becoming.

The training wheels come off.

They keep moving forward.

And we cheer.

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

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "You know, Spock, humans have a funny habit. They spend years teaching someone how to do something and then get emotional when they're no longer needed."

Spock: "On the contrary, Doctor, it is a highly logical outcome. Effective teaching creates independence."

Bones: "Still feels a little bittersweet."

Spock: "Perhaps. Yet it also appears to be one of Captain Michael's favorite kinds of victories."

As I think about those cousins letting go of my bicycle years ago, I realize they gave me more than balance. They gave me confidence. I hope I've done the same for a few people along the way.

May you live long and prosper. 🖖