Isaiah Bruley, 22, a rookie cop in Maryville, Mo., is quickly learning the complex realities of police work. He spends long shifts patrolling the town’s streets before leaving his gear behind and heading home to his fiancee, Mackenzie Gooding, 21, and their 8-month-old son, Benjamin.

The transition between his work and home life can be difficult. Isaiah describes the heightened awareness required on the job as a constant fight or flight mentality, always watching and anticipating what might happen next. During the quiet stretches of his shift, he keeps an eye out for minor violations, but he’s constantly aware that even routine encounters can potentially escalate to more serious situations.

Coming home requires an intentional shift in energy. Whether he stops home for lunch or returns after a long day, Isaiah has to consciously leave the mindset of police work behind and reorient himself to family life. That transition can be especially difficult after emotionally heavy calls, especially those involving children or situations that remind him of challenges from his own childhood.

Despite the demands of the job, Isaiah’s enthusiasm for his work is palpable. Still early in his career, he actively seeks out opportunities to learn and grow. Isaiah said he considers his new profession part of “God’s plan” for his life. He’s learning to navigate his new roles in the department and at home.