April, 21, 2012. Twelve years to the day has passed since graduating from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in Columbia, South Carolina. Could anyone ever know that the anniversary date of the first day they started a journey to live a life dedicated to helping others, would later be the same day that journey ended? My journey to help others dramatically changed in a split second. While on duty, I was helping some kids that left home without permission a couple hours past midnight.
There was an unfortunate accident and a car hit my car, which hit me, and through me 50ft, with me landing on my head. I suffered a traumatic brain injury, and wasn't expected to live. Beating those odds, I still battle the after-effects daily. Now I seek that same dedication to help me in the new quest I’ve been given.
My wife, countless professionals, family, friends, and above all, God, have helped me take each step in rebuilding my life, brick by brick. Fast forward from the beginning of my new life, through the therapy sessions, and learning to be the new me, to something that I’ve been using to help build on the tools I’ve learned over the past four and a half years.
LEGOS!!
One of my favorite movie franchises, Ghostbusters, is being released as a Lego set! I didn’t know how well I would be able to follow the directions. I didn’t know if I would get too frustrated trying to put together something that a ten year old can do, but I struggle with. I wanted the challenge, and I took it! It took me four months to complete the headquarters. It was awesome, but discouraging that it took that long for me to build it. One of the biggest reminders I have on my all the time, “Positive thoughts”, is always there to help me adjust to my deficiencies. While it took me a lot longer to do it compared to others, I did do it. That was something for me to be proud of.
Ghostbusters Firehouse Headquarters
It helped me look at different ways to organize projects. It helped to deal with problems following directions. The time it took to complete the build showed me that regardless of the setbacks, I was still progressing.
Brick Bank, first floor complete!
I started learning about the modular buildings and I saw how others have built complete cities out of Legos, and I knew that I wanted to do something like that. So, I’ve started building different modular sets that are available.
Ice cream at the Grand Emporium!
I’ve done a few sets outside of the city theme. I’m sure I’ll find somewhere to put them to use. Star Wars world? I think so!!
Mos Eisley Cantina
Well, I’ve told a small part of the story, hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know a little piece of this epic novel that will be My Brick Life.
Peace!! ~James
