From Combat to Compassion: A Veteran’s Journey to Spiritual Leadership
By Rev. Joseph C. Gomez
I. The Battle Beyond the War
• “Each of us authors our own story in this book called life. The decisions we make, how we handle adversity, shape who we are. As Alexander Alvarez said, ‘…in order to stand up, you got to know what falling down is like.’ My journey from the depths of despair to a life of purpose is a testament to this truth.”
II. A Soldier’s Tale: Losing and Finding Myself
• “Born and raised in Silver City, NM, I was the youngest of four and the only son. Enlisting in the Marines was a turning point, taking me to places I never imagined. But Iraq… Iraq was where my innocence was lost, where I first began to write a story I never expected.”
III. The Homecoming: A War Within
• “Returning home, I thought I could leave the war behind. But battles of a different kind awaited me. PTSD, anxiety, depression, night terrors… they became my new enemies. Little did I know, I was losing myself to a war raging within.”
IV. Falling Down: A Descent into Darkness
• “The day I was discharged from the Marine Corps, I felt like my entire sense of self had shattered. I felt like a loser, a disappointment to everyone, including myself. This crushing sense of failure drove me to bars, friends, anywhere that could numb the pain. Cocaine, alcohol, a 1% motorcycle club – they became my escape. Yet, with each day, I was losing more of the man I once was, more of the man I aspired to be.”
V. Rock Bottom: Facing My Reflection
• “Staring into the abyss, I finally saw the truth. I had become a shadow of myself, drowning in despair and addiction. The moment my life was literally at gunpoint, I realized the need for change. It was time to write a new chapter.”
VI. Rising Again: The Road to Redemption
• “With nothing left to lose, I returned to New Mexico. My family, ever supportive, welcomed me without judgment. It was here, amidst the love and guidance of those who never gave up on me, that I began to rediscover who I was meant to be.”
VII. A New Mission: Embracing My Calling
• “Rekindling my faith, I found my calling in ministry and education. My podcast, ‘Renegadez: Men of Faith & Fortitude©️,’ became a vessel for sharing my story, for helping others navigate the rough seas of life while clinging to faith and fortitude.”
VIII. Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope
• “Today, I stand here, a man reborn. My story, recognized by the Library of Congress, is not just mine. It’s a beacon for anyone struggling in the dark, searching for a way back to light, hope, and purpose.”
Closing Thought
“No matter how far you’ve fallen, or how hopeless it seems, there’s a way back. Until next time, keep believing, keep striving, and keep living a life full of faith and fortitude. God Bless.”
