Finally tonight: fatherhood and why my first year of it has been the best year of my life.

Every child is a gift from God; every birth is a miracle. But the birth of my child, my little Allyson Patton Turner, is the pinnacle of so many miracles in my life that began after I was born again.

One year ago today, my wife Nicky brought Allyson into the world and our wildest dream into reality. We've called her Ally, "Pooh Bear," "Hookus Pookus Mcgookus" and for several weeks in the beginning, "Screaming Night Terror."

Never before had I understood love on this level, unconditional, overwhelming, all-consuming and so deep it feels as if my heart might sometimes explode with joy.

She is the light in my life, the reason to awaken, the purpose for living.

Living, for me, is a miracle in itself. Four years ago my life was a walking death of hopeless addictions that had destroyed my mind, my body and my soul. But in accepting that Christ died for me I was reborn to live for Him and Nicky and Ally.

Four years ago this month I gave my life to Christ. One year ago today He gave Allyson's life to me. I'm sure I got the better of both deals.