Day and Night

On The Road Again

Author's note: I honestly thought this was done, but my friend asked for more and after a brief moment my brain said 'Let's see where the road takes us!' So, here we go.

The miles rolled by as the rig crossed the coast with the new audio book giving lots of food for thought, but soon enough it was time to refuel the diesel engine as well as the driver's stomach. His expert planning and favorable road conditions had brought him just where he wanted to be, one of his favorite fueling stations. He quickly updated his logbook and swung open the door but did not hop down immediately. He sat there swinging his legs until his knees didn't feel so stiff before swinging down from the cab to the gravel.

A quick look around at the other rigs let him know a few familiar faces would be in the building or asleep in the bunks. Once he was inside, he'd get his answer and could text the others before he was done. He checked in on the app and viewed the other check ins to see if he'd missed anyone. A quick text home letting his wife know he was stopped and safe was answered immediately.

*Glad you're safe. Give everyone hugs from me. Call later. Love you.

Her words put a smile on his face that grew wider as he opened the glass door to a cheer, "Yah, there you are! Bout time you dragged your butt in here."

His hand went up in a casual friendly wave to the waitress as he passed the counter and headed for the booth where two of the three drivers he hoped to see were sitting. One woman stood and they clasped arms before leaning forward to plant a peck on the others cheek. She slid back into the booth and readjusted her plate and cup to make room for him to sit while the other seated man stood up to engulf him in a bear hug.

He returned the hug whole heartedly. These connections were what made it possible to work away from family. This was part of his road family, and he didn't want to fathom what he'd do without them.

"Okay." He joked. "You better let me go. I haven't been to the facilities yet."

He was released with a chuckle. "I better let you go then, cause I ain't changin' ya'."

He laughed as he headed toward the restrooms throwing his hand up in a casual greeting or nodding his head to a familiar face or two as he passed.

It was a pleasant surprise to see upon his return the third friend at the table. They high fived and he crowded in beside him playfully pushing. "Thanks for ordering for me. This is perfect," he quipped as he reached for a fry.

"Be my guest, Pal."

With a shoulder bump and a smile that met his eyes he slid the plate over in front of its rightful owner, right before stealing a final fry of course.

The waitress who had been at this for several years and knew to watch who had sat down, approached with a coffee pot in her hand. But unlike most eateries, she didn't ask what he wanted to eat. Instead, she set the coffee pot on the table and rested her hand on his shoulder bowing her head.

The group closed the circle by grasping the hand of the one next to them and all bowed their heads. The waitress spoke softly but sincerely, "Thank you, Lord, for each one here. Thank you for their safe passage and that we get to share a moment in each other's presence together with You, the Way Maker. Bless our efforts that each in our way can be a light shining for You. Amen"

A repeat of the Amens came from around the table as heads lifted.

She turned over the cup and poured the coffee.

"Thanks, Doris." He replied. It was understood that the gratitude was for more than the beverage. He ordered a heavier meal since he would be catching some sleep afterward.

The road family caught up on each other's news, all the ebbs and flows of life as they enjoyed their food. Other drivers stopped by the table for a quick chat or greeting. People came and went just like at home.

A pleasant lethargy had begun to settle as he walked slowly back to his rig with plans to meet up after his sleep with one of his tablemates. The others were heading back on the road following two hugs apiece. He'd taken the time to point out which was from him and which from his wife. Somehow, even in absentia, she gave the best hugs.

He had lots to fill her in on he thought with a smile as he snuggled into his bunk and dialed the phone.