52 10-4 Magazine / November 2025 must navigate the urban jungles here. That same struggle for survival persists every day as we thread our way through the streets of disappointment, disillusion, and depression. What may have started as a dream for some can – and in some cases has – descended into the fight of a lifetime. We as drivers leave much of ourselves on the highway. The very vehicle we are so proud to drive has become our personal haunted house. The revolving driver’s door is one we can’t seem to stop from opening. Yes, trucking is a revolving door, with the up and down cycles of the economy, and people jumping in and out, leaving huge gaps of opportunity and despair. Somewhere along the way, our cabs have became the new “foxhole” for those of us who continue to fight for the cause. It is the metal sanctuary for our faith – the private place we love, laugh, and even cry. Yes, the strongest of grown men have shed tears when no one is watching. But, more importantly, it is the place we pray for strength, forgiveness, and peace of mind. I have joked over the years that I’m a Peterbilt Presbyterian, and I know some Kenworth Katholics, maybe even a few Mack Methodists, but in reality, most Americans are Christians by faith, regardless of our preferences to brand. If by chance you are some other faith or following, wonderful, here in America you are free to worship as you choose. No one has the right to interfere with you or your exercise of faith. These constitutional provisions are protected by the same men and women who shelter in foxholes around the world. There was once a time when it was common to see a driver pray over his food at truck stops. Today, not so much, as many hide or shelter their connection to a greater cause. I would ask, “Why? Is it because you are embarrassed to be recognized as faithful, or do you fear retribution from those around you who may be offended? And it’s not just the Christians – there are seven big religions in the world today, and most display or openly perform acts of thanksgiving and praise to these faiths in their daily lives. Are you one, or do you cower like the beggar, afraid to risk exposure should you fail to live up to the standards set by society? Do you find yourself only looking to a higher authority when in times of crisis? “Jesus take the wheel!” Like that soldier in a foxhole, we must believe what we are doing is righteous, redeemable, and vital for our survival. I find in my personal life I fight most battles behind the wheel, so it is only reasonable to assume that’s my foxhole. The windshield is my rampart, and I take all enemies head on. Yes, I also consider that hood to be my alter, and the place I leave troubles too big or important for me to handle alone. It is also the place where I witness life’s glory and all the wonders of His hand. Every sunrise gives me hope and every sunset gives me confirmation of His promise. Through the worst of storms, I hold the wheel firmly, knowing I’m not alone. I am guided by a power greater than my own abilities. Through the times of darkness, my path is lighted, and even though the shadows of doubt hide unseen fears, I will fear not! I have told a story many times of how me and that old truck have scared the hell out of more people than the greatest evangelist. What has, at times, trapped me like a haunted house and scared me more than goblins of another realm, also reminds me that I am just a small part of this vast world. However, my might is found in actions freely given to others. Through protection, through information, and through friendships, I receive the greatest gift – forgiveness! It is what keeps me from turning my sanctuary into a house of horrors. It prepares me for a life in the light of our Lord, traveling on streets of gold, and not cast into darkness. It is where I give thanks for all the blessings I receive, not a place where goblins roam. I often wonder if the currencies of the afterlife are gathered and granted by acts of kindness and forgiven aggressions in this life. Will I be rich or just another poor sinner once again? Don’t be blinded by one night’s celebration. Be vigilant every night and stand watch over your own Devil’s Night. Protect all the little ghosts and goblins as they return back to their normal loving selves powered by mounds of sugar-infused treats. Make this month a season of thanksgiving, of joyous and safe festivities. Remember, you rule the road, and your actions affect others more so than yourself, so be their eyes, their ears, and their faithful soldier in the foxhole, 10-4! n
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