Stardate 10.11.2026
Yesterday was a day off from my day job, and I used the time to explore my new surroundings.
My body is still adjusting to the time change from my recent travels in the UK. Getting my rhythms back in sync has taken patience. Rest days have become an important part of that process.
This morning, I woke up feeling better. My sleep report showed steady improvement, which was encouraging to see. I'm learning to give my body the time it needs while continuing to work toward my health goals.
One percent better every day.
The Words Came Back to Me
My supply of sardines had run out, so I returned to the area of my previous assignment to replenish my stock. I picked up six more cartons and encountered several managers and staff members I had worked with during my training assignment.
As we caught up, something wonderful happened. Several people, independently of one another, told me they were working to get 1% better every day.
Those words stayed with me.
I've spent years trying to live by that philosophy. When I'm learning something new, I make plenty of mistakes. I need my share of mulligans, those opportunities to try again after getting something wrong.
I've learned to accept that part of the process. I take responsibility, learn what I can, and keep moving forward. That approach helps me manage my anxiety when I'm facing a new challenge.
Hearing those familiar words from people I had worked with made my day. I returned to my current assignment feeling fulfilled.
The First Swim
Later that afternoon, I used the first punch on my aquatic center membership card. Ten visits were available, and I was ready to begin building a new routine.
The Olympic-size pool gave me my own lane. I alternated among several swimming strokes and worked toward my goal of thirty minutes in the water. I took a few brief rests along the way and completed the session.
After swimming, I moved to a second pool with jacuzzi jets to soothe my muscles.
Thirty minutes in the water felt good. I had challenged my body, reached my goal, and taken the first step toward a habit I hope to maintain for the rest of my life.
Nine punches remain on my card.
An Invitation to the Wedding Feast
After my swim, I showered and made my way to the University of Kansas campus for its 4 p.m. Saturday worship service.
The priest reminded me of Fr. Mike Schmitz, whom I met during an earlier work assignment. His homily centered on the parable of the wedding feast.
The invitations had gone out, but the invited guests didn't respond. Messengers were sent to remind them, and those messengers were killed. The host eventually opened the invitation to everyone, including people others might have considered unworthy of an invitation.
The pastor spoke about Jesus inviting you and me to be with Him.
He wants us at the wedding feast, even when we think we don't belong.
That message went straight to my heart.
I know my flaws. I know how many times I've needed a mulligan. Sometimes I carry those shortcomings with me longer than I should.
Yesterday's homily reminded me that Jesus wants me with Him. His invitation is there, and I can accept it.
What a beautiful expression of love.
One More Day, One More Step
This morning, I woke up feeling better, and my sleep report supported that feeling. I'm ready to seize the day.
I have more work to do as my body recovers from travel. I'm also establishing routines in a new environment, and I know those habits will take time to develop.
I'll keep working at it.
The next time I visit the pool, I'll punch another hole in my card. Each visit gives me an opportunity to practice a habit that can support my health for years to come.
And I'll keep making room for the occasional mulligan. That's part of learning, whether I'm working on my health, beginning a new assignment, or trying to become a better person.
Jesus continues to invite me forward, and I have another day to say yes.
Scripture
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
— Psalm 118:24 (KJV)
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Captain's Addendum
Spock: Michael, the evidence suggests that consistent effort is producing measurable progress. Your former colleagues appear to have adopted the same philosophy.
Bones: And he managed to get his swim in, hear a good homily, and rest his muscles. Maybe there's hope for that body of his yet.
Spock: Your bedside manner remains as precise as ever, Doctor.
Michael's Reflection
I'll take the progress, Doctor. I'll take the mulligans, too. Every new day gives me another opportunity to learn, to grow, and to accept the invitation Jesus keeps extending.
One percent better, one day at a time.
May you live long and prosper. 🖖
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