Murphy's World

Chasing a dream in an 18-wheeler

Dear Murphy,

I have this dream. I want to be a writer and write the Great American Novel. I sold everything I had and set out in my car in order to make my dream come true. I didn’t know where my dream would take me, but I was looking forward to a life-changing journey.

Somewhere along the line, I left my car behind and climbed into an 18-wheeler to see first-hand what the world looked like through the eyes of a real king of the road. I didn’t know what I was getting into, but I figured it would be a learning experience. One of the first things I learned is that truck drivers have a tough life and deserve more respect for the job they do. I learned that most truck drivers are good people who are just trying to earn a living, the same as anyone else. Truckers take pride in their work. I think a lot of new drivers could learn from the veteran over-the-road professionals, if they would only take the time to listen.

I say “thank you” to the truckers of America, because without them, we would not have the things we do. I also thank their families, especially their wives, who worry about their loved ones on the road. Thank you truckers, for helping me live out my dream.

Christine

Branchville, NJ

Dear Christine,

On behalf of the millions of truck drivers who put in a hard day’s work every day with nowhere near the respect they deserve, thank you for your kind words. It’s fair to say that if everyone walked (or better yet, drove) a mile in an over-the-road professional’s shoes, this country would have a much higher regard for truck drivers.

If you want to be a writer, the road is a great place to find great stories. When we ask truckers what they like the most about their jobs (as we did for the “Say What?” feature elsewhere in this issue), many of them inevitably mention the freedom of the open road and the people they meet along the way. Dozens of great American novels were inspired by road trips across this great country of ours, including one of my all-time favorites, “On the Road,” by legendary beat writer Jack Kerouac.

It’s inspiring to hear someone who will literally give up everything to pursue their dream, as you have done. We wish you well. One final word of advice: Don’t jump into the cab of every truck driver who offers you a ride. As much as it hurts us to say it, not all truckers are knights in shining armor, and we want your Cinderella story to have a happy ending.

Regards,

Murphy and Lucky Dog