Went shooting for the first time in a long time. As I handled the weapons, memories of my time in Afghanistan came flooding back—both the camaraderie and the weight of responsibility. The familiar feel of the M1 Garand in my hands stirred something deep inside, though it’s different now. My cousin Andy has good technique with it; watching him handle firearms with such respect makes me proud.

There’s an interesting shift that happens when you return to civilian life. People might expect me to be eager to get behind a trigger again, given my service background. But these days, I find more peace and purpose behind a camera lens. Maybe it’s because I’ve seen enough of what weapons can do, or maybe it’s just part of my healing journey. Either way, capturing moments rather than taking shots feels right.

Being around family helps ground me. Their presence reminds me that I’m home now, that there’s beauty in these peaceful moments we share. The desert landscape of the range might resemble places I’d rather forget, but the laughter and casual conversation with loved ones transforms it into something new.