Back injuries can be humbling. Really humbling . I've been so very physical in my physical gifts, for lack of a better way to describe it. Almost arrogant; like i was invincible. Most would guess I'm 10-15 years younger than i really am. I guess it comes with the stuff I've done, and that I remained so physically capable for so long. Heck, a broken neck, both feet run over, two broken tibias, partial tear of both achilles tendons, three concussions. Eight different surgeries. I've had so many injuries I can't remember them all (the three concussions probably don't help). Second oldest guy to make it through recruit school. I felt like I was banged up, but nothnig could stop me.

Well, up until my back injury. My attitude was always "whatever, I'll be back before you know it." Not this one. Can't wakeboard, lift weights, run, ride my motorcycle, mountain bike. Can't play soccer, football, rough house with my kids.

I believe God has a purpose in almost all that occurs to us. I've grown much stronger in my Christian faith. It' made me realize what truly is important in this life. I could spend a bunch of words to describe that, but i think you already know that.

I've come to realize that our bodies are fragile and will fail us; but our faith is not contained within our physical bodies. I've learned that we can learn much from suffering. In fact I feel God may have wanted me to suffer to help me in my growth, humility and faith.

I've spent a great deal of time reflecting on what I'm doing with my life and how I can help best serve my fellow man. Firefighting is serving our fellow man; but in many ways I feel more like a mercenary, rather than doing it to serve others. So many FFs gripe and moan about their benefits, and feel they "deserve" so much more. I know we take risks. But for the most part those risks are way overstated.

My Brigade Command Sergeant Major is now the Director of the Wa State Veterans Administration. I have another friend who is the pastor for the Tacoma Union Gospel Ministry. I've talked to both of those guys to see if my skill set can be put to use helping. I invested a great deal of time and effort into training over 100 young men (and a few women) to be effective combat leaders. Now a few of them, and many of those they led, are suffering through terrible and horrific injuries to their bodies, their spirits and their minds. Many of those Afghan and Iraq veterans today will be the homeless of the next generation of FFs. I've decided to put my energy into helping Gulf War vets and the homeless, in any way I can.