Today is my birthday.

I am now closer to 40 than I am to 30 years of age. And I am grateful to be able to say that.

When I was going through my divorce, death looked like a tempting release. I am grateful for my relationship with Jesus that saw me through that dark time.

Life is a precious gift never to be squandered. Never forget that!

My life today is a full one. I am doing meaningful work with a government job in my hometown. Many  people can never say that. I am grateful.

Plus, I am grateful for the amazing family God has given me. Mrs. DM and Munchkin fill my life with joy and laughter. What more could a man want!

These days I am pursuing another one of my hobbies–i.e. powerlifting (hence the photos).

I continue learning to embrace who I am. Gratefully, God has made me into a very large and very strong man. I am taking that and applying it to a goal of mine.

I want to bench press 500 pounds (227 Kilograms) raw someday.

That is a goal many men will never achieve in their lifetime. However, I have the physique and determination to do so. Plus, I have a knowledgeable trainer to keep me safe and guide me in achieving this goal.

It is so much fun!

Some people enjoy running marathons. Others enjoy doing triathlons. I enjoy benching enough weight to make the barbell bend and bounce. It is a rush.

So, I am enjoying life. God has given me so many gifts that I would never have experienced if I had given into despair eight years ago.

So, I encourage you. It may look dark now. However, life does get better, and life is too precious to squander.