Hobbies are important for self-care. They are especially important while going through stressful times as a healthy release.

For me, I am learning the sport of equipped, powerlifting. In particular, I am learning how to do the bench press with equipment. It is a nice physical activity for variety from my more cerebral work as a Chaplain.

Today, I went up to the Twin Cities and had a session with a very experienced lifting coach. He gave me some excellent pointers, and I hit a new personal record on the bench…

710lbs (322kg)!

This was my goal to hit by the end of 2021. It feels to have accomplished this goal. Plus, I have a bunch of things to work on to dial in my technique for even more weight. Exciting times!