The Neptune Warrior

The transition from military life to becoming a passionate scuba diver and traveler in third-world countries has been an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and purpose. My experiences, both in the disciplined environment of the military and the unpredictable waters of scuba diving, have uniquely prepared me for this life of exploration and contribution. The song “Roll the Bones” by Rush, which I encountered right after returning from working in refugee camps, seemed to encapsulate my life at that moment—emphasizing chance, fate, and taking risks, and it has since become a personal anthem for navigating the uncertainties of life.

The pursuit of adventure in my post-military life took on a new dimension as I began to engage more deeply with the communities I visited. My number one strength is “Significance” (the definition covered in other blog entries), so the thrill of exploration remained, but it was now coupled with a desire to contribute positively to the places I discovered, especially in third-world countries. The act of swapping combat boots for flip flops and board shorts became symbolic of this transformation—a physical representation of shedding an old identity in favor of a new, more nuanced understanding of the world and my place within it.

Embracing a New Adventure

After years of military service, where I was trained to adapt to different cultures, languages, and customs, I found myself seeking a new kind of thrill—one that not only quenched my adventurous spirit but also allowed me to make a meaningful impact. The “swapping of my uniform and combat boots for flip flops and board shorts” symbolized this shift from a life of structured discipline to one of freedom and exploration beneath the water.

As I embraced this new way of life, my commitment to supporting those who served remained unwavering. However, my experiences led me to question the decisions of ‘old men who sent young men into harm’s way”. This questioning wasn’t born out of cynicism but rather a desire for accountability and a deeper understanding of the costs of conflict. It reflects a broader perspective on the impacts of military action, not just on those who serve but also on the civilians caught in the crossfire.

Military Training as a Foundation for Cultural Integration

The rigorous training and experiences from my days serving became invaluable as I began traveling to third-world countries as a scuba diver. The Army and Air Force had taught me the importance of respecting and understanding different cultures, learning (or attempting to learn) new languages, and adapting to various ways of life.

Remembering the growth I experienced from that journey of cultural immersion and language acquisition reshaped my understanding of true connection with global communities. This intensive training, aimed at equipping me to operate effectively in diverse environments, was both enlightening and challenging. Starting with an immersive rather than academic language program, I delved deep into the intricacies of attempting to learn Arabic and Farsi, struggling for fluency to enable genuine interactions with local populations, transcending mere academic exercise to become a bridge to empathy.

The training also emphasized understanding customs and traditions, going beyond avoiding cultural faux pas to deeply respecting different ways of life, utilizing knowledge as a tool for building trust and rapport. The culmination was a realistic field exercise simulating the complexities of foreign operations, where negotiating with local leaders and resolving conflicts in a foreign language tested my cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

Reflecting on this journey, I’m struck by the depth of connection and understanding it fostered, serving as a profound education in diversity, communication, and the importance of building bridges, shaping a compassionate and empathetic approach to interactions worldwide.

This foundation allowed me to seamlessly integrate into the communities I visited, not as an outsider but as someone genuinely interested in their well-being and eager to learn from them.

Finding Purpose in Helping Children

One of the most profound realizations during my travels was witnessing the hardships faced by children living in poverty. Inspired by the resilience and spirit of these communities, I found a renewed sense of purpose. I learned that my passion for scuba diving could be a force for good, leading me to support local economies by purchasing goods and services. This not only helped sustain these communities but also provided a tangible way to aid in the betterment of the lives I came in contact with. My daughter, Abeni, whose name means “Child Prayed For,” serves as a constant reminder of the hope and prayers I encountered in the refugee camps. Her name is a tribute to the strength and resilience of those who have faced unimaginable challenges.

Witnessing the indomitable spirit of communities facing poverty, I discovered a renewed sense of purpose. I realized that my passion for scuba diving, an activity that first served as a tactical delivery skill, then as a psychological escape, could be harnessed as a force for good. By supporting local economies through the purchase of goods and services, I was able to contribute, in my own small way, to the sustenance of these communities. It wasn’t just about economic support, it was about affirming the dignity and resilience of those struggling to make ends meet.

I named my daughter after those experiences in Southwest Asia during my career, and later I founded an organization that taught hockey to At-Risk youth in San Antonio. But it was the birth of my daughter, our “Child Prayed For,” who became a poignant reminder of the hope and prayers that permeated the my experience in those camps. Her name stands as a tribute to the strength and resilience of those facing unimaginable challenges. Each time I look into her eyes, I’m reminded of the contrasting worlds—the one of despair I left behind and the one filled with hope I aim to create for her and children like those I’ve encountered.

Living through these experiences has imbued me with a sense of responsibility and a mission to make a difference. The cold despair and the sense of hopelessness that once seemed insurmountable have been replaced by a warmth fueled by purpose and action. It’s a journey from witnessing the depths of human suffering to striving towards a semblance of healing, both for myself and for the communities I’ve had the privilege to serve.

The Philosophy of “Roll the Bones”

As mentioned earlier, after coming home from a really bad deployment, the album, “Roll the Bones”, from my all time favorite band, Rush came out. The title track speaks to the very essence of my journey. The song’s message about embracing uncertainty, taking risks, and making the most out of life’s randomness resonates deeply with me. It has encouraged me to pursue paths I once thought too risky and to find purpose in the face of chaos. My experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, the value of resilience, and the profound impact one can have by simply choosing to care and contribute.

Thinking on life’s purpose has become a continuous process for me. “Roll the Bones” prompted me to question what impact I wish to have on the world and how I can use my own experiences, my own “roll of the bones,” to benefit others. My journey through third-world countries wasn’t just about the challenges faced; it was a transformative experience that reshaped my outlook on life, emphasizing the power of resilience, the importance of empathy, and the value of taking risks for the sake of growth and contribution.

The personal transformation I underwent was profound. The song encouraged me to take control of my fate, despite the randomness of existence. I was inspired to pursue paths I previously thought were too risky or out of reach, leading me to reevaluate my career, personal aspirations, and my role in making a difference in the world.

Reflecting on Life’s Purpose

My journey from the structured life of the military to the free-spirited world of scuba travel has been a testament to the power of transformation and purpose. It has shown me that life’s greatest rewards often come from taking chances and stepping into the unknown with an open heart and a willingness to help. As I continue to explore the depths of the water and the breadth of human experience, I am reminded of the importance of finding joy in discovery and fulfillment in making a difference.

In essence, my adventures have taught me to roll with the punches, embrace the unknown, and cherish the opportunity to impact the lives of those I meet along the way. My journey is a continuous exploration of life’s depths, both in the sea and in the human spirit, driven by a desire to leave the world a little better than I found it.