Chapter 1: Morning Rituals

Every morning begins at 4 a.m. when my alarm jolts me awake. The aroma of brewing coffee fills the air as I take care of some morning necessities and groom my beard to maintain that timeless 5 o’clock shadow my wife adores. I then step into the icy embrace of my morning shower. Initially, the cold shocks me, but soon my body adjusts, and I relish the refreshment it brings. After a minute, I step out feeling rejuvenated, clean, and ready for my Bible study with a cup of coffee in hand.

As I complete my First-Fifteen-Minutes-Awake routine, I feel invigorated and prepared to dive into my work. I open the script I'm developing and review it with a fresh perspective, revising yesterday's draft. “Not bad!” I muse, but then I ponder whether the artist illustrating this story might want to contribute their own ideas. It dawns on me that—

1. Am. Here. I'm engaging in the very work I’ve aspired to for years, if not decades.

Section 1.1: My Role in the Community

So, what’s my current role? I am a school bus driver. (Sure, it may not seem impressive, but hold on!) My childhood dream was to be a superhero, dedicated to safeguarding my community, though I never received any extraordinary powers. Instead, I ensure the safety of the children who ride my bus to and from school. It's a fulfilling and demanding job, but I take pride in contributing positively to society. (And summers off? Yes, please!)

After years of questioning my faith, I’ve recently embraced God. For over a year, I've joined my family at church, and I was baptized just last weekend. Every Sunday, I attend service, participate in two life groups, and enjoy the monthly men’s breakfast. My wife and I also helped out with the summer church camp, and I’ve discovered deep friendships among the congregation. Each morning, I read the Bible and follow it with prayer, which, alongside my cold showers, helps foster a positive mindset and dispel negativity.

Section 1.2: My Support System

I am surrounded by my loving family: my wonderful wife, my adorable daughters, our older dog, and our playful puppy. Even our cats add joy to my life. They all bring excitement, fulfillment, and a delightful chaos to my days.

Chapter 2: Embracing My Creative Journey

It was a recent realization that prompted me to pause and appreciate the life I’m living. I’m making comic books professionally with one of my oldest friends. And I’m proud of the work we’re creating—not just because of the quality, but also the meaningful messages we’re sharing. Our comic, "Happy Astronaut," follows a character dissatisfied with his mundane job on Earth who becomes an astronaut, exploring the universe with his robotic companion, Little Robot Dude. It’s a joyful project, and I couldn’t be more excited. We currently have a crowdfunding campaign on Zoop that has already reached its goal and is progressing toward our next milestone! It’s an exhilarating experience! (Check us out here!)

Furthermore, we’ve connected with a group of creators we admire who are allowing us to publish stories featuring their characters. What began as a single-page contribution has evolved into four-page stories! Collaborating with characters we love in a medium we cherish, alongside a friend I value, is a dream come true. (And I wrote a story that one of these creators has agreed to illustrate! I asked, “Hey, want to collaborate?” expecting a “No,” but was pleasantly surprised by a “Yes!” I’m still in awe! Yes!)

Reflecting on my life, I realize how crucial it has been to pause and appreciate my journey. If you’ve read this far, I have one last thought to share.

Whether or not you share my beliefs, I urge you to understand that my life has transformed thanks to my newfound faith. Before stepping into that church a year ago, everything felt stagnant or in disarray. Since then, things have started to click. Ideas for scripts flowed, good news arrived, confidence surged, and I discovered bravery. Positivity has triumphed over negativity—eventually.

(DISCLAIMER: As a natural pessimist, I've been striving toward a more optimistic outlook for several years. This reflection was challenging to write, as both sides battled for dominance in my mind. Ultimately, I hold the power to choose the victor. But both perspectives have made their points. Optimism will prevail in the end. Always.)

The first video, "Speech Close to My Heart ❤️ | Reflect On Your Path | Presentation Mastery | Toastmasters," delves into the importance of self-reflection and personal growth.

The second video, "Mountain without a peak - Presentation Mastery - Level 5 - Reflect on your path," explores the journey of self-discovery and the challenges faced along the way.