After fifty-eight years of living, the author has arrived at the realization that the most important things in life are not things at all. They are relationships. The most important relationship you can ever have is with your Creator. Strengthening, cultivating, and growing your relationship with God is the key to a joy-filled, satisfying life. It's the author's prayer that this guide will assist you in building that relationship. Nothing compares to the pure joy we experience when we are focused on God, and glorifying His name and His Kingdom. Gratitude is the key that opens the door to joy, in everything else!

Rick Killpack began his journey with Jesus in 1978 while attending a national Fellowship of Christian Athletes' conference at Estes Park, Colorado, as a fifteen-year-old high school student. He graduated from Mason City High School where he lettered in football, wrestling, track and was voted by his teammates as captain on both football and track teams.

He is beyond grateful for all the inspiring pastors, teachers, and other wonderful people he has met along his journey. He has attended a wide variety of religious organizations throughout his life and he sees the great importance of how they assist in building values and families in our society.

Rick has served on the MCOT (Mobile Crisis Outreach Team) for psychiatric emergencies in Summit County, Utah. He is a mental health advocate having written The Bipolar Booklet and documentary series, American Mood Swings. For more information on Rick's national project, visit AmericanMoodSwing.com and AmericanMoodSwings.com.

He attends Mountain Life Church in Park City, Utah.