I am Kevin P. Justice. Born 4 Nov 1969 in Roanoke, VA. I had a good childhood, take the Appalachian Mountains with me wherever I go and when I smell fresh air, it reminds me of home.
I joined the Navy in 1994, and remember vividly the feeling of excitement of a new chapter in my life. I spent most of this past summer in and out of hospitals and was diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) due to an injury I received while deployed.
Associated with the TBI, I have also been diagnosed with Trauma Related, Cognitive and Anxiety Disorders, all not to overshadow sometimes funny but very frustrating balance issues, a pesky speech impediment and headaches… Having spent most of my career at sea and doing what Sailors do, I have had my share of injuries, but nothing like this. Questioning your thoughts is not unusual, but constantly about most everything that goes through your mind is not my ideal cognitive process…
I have endured/enjoyed many deployments over the years. Thankful for the wonderful and life-long friends that I have made and can think of few better callings in life. Sacrifice is part of the deal and I have had my share. None to worry though as I have air in my lungs, moving forward as best I am able, and thankful for the precious things in my life…
What the future holds: Medical separation from the Navy I love and don’t want to leave, questions about how to sustain myself on the “outside” and a new chapter in the journey…All the things that won’t matter much in 20 years and I try and keep that outlook.
Regarding a trait that I admire about myself: My desire. My desire to be the best Papa I can be to my boys, my desire of self-healing (clarification: focus on myself by the use of my own and other’s knowledge, caring and experience to heal), and my desire to spread good things to those around me whether it is with a smile, kind words or effort that drains me.
Now for a superpower I would like to have. Superman was always my favorite, but I like shorts too much. Don’t remember him ever wearing shorts… Maybe being like Spiderman cause of his agility, but at 46, doubt there is a spider alive that can bridge that gap. How about being able to have a sphere of influence that allows others around me to be happy or in some kind manner? Geessshhh, I think I am on to something here. Imagine people void of pessimism, negativity, greed and envy. What a life that would be. Yep, I pick that!
About “Getting quiet”: I met Dr. Theresa Larson through the adaptive sports program run by Balboa hospital. They have an amazing program that help people get back into shape, physically as well as mentally. I went to a Crossfit workout at Fathom Crossfit where she (and the owner Alec Zirkenbach) showed true caring for my well-being and have enhanced my inner-focus. She mentioned this thing about being quiet. I was interested. After some instruction, I followed her prescribed path. What a wonderful journey it took me on. Simply sitting in my chair and taking care of me for a bit of time during each day. This kind of focus, commitment and understanding is not in our everyday culture. However, I recommend that you take it, make it yours and it will provide benefits that you can not measure by a slide rule, lab results or percentage. Only you know you the best. Thanks doc for reminding me that our journey needs to be simpler, better focused and have valued clarity 🙂
My closing thoughts (and this might get towards the deep end of the shallow part of the pool so get on your favorite animal decorated arm-floaties)…
We all have physical and/or mental challenges that face us often. You may not be able to stop them and they may be small or large in comparison to the ones of the person next to you. However, I try not to think of them in those terms, but rather of my perception of what it will take me to overcome and/or adapt to them. That to me, is the measurement of effort required for a given challenge. My simple terms: Do I need a shovel, backhoe or explosives to get to the desired depth of my perception needed to overcome the challenge…
Some of the ways I work around or through challenges:
-Breathe deep and try to sustain forward momentum
-The direction travelled may not be straight, that’s ok (angles give better perspective)
-Small goals create more success than trying to squint at the finish line
-Your patience will be tested. This is not pass/fail, it is an opportunity to to improve it
-The past is just that, so leave it be
-Asking/accepting help shows strength, courage and almost always is a must
-Professionals, friends, and family can provide guidance and support, but it is the belief within you that WILL allow you to get better
Every single day, work on you.
V/R,
LT Kevin P. Justice
USN
Kevin is picture with his sons DJ and Logan