A CLEAN AND SOBER TRUCK DRIVER!

I know this doesn't have anything to do with getting a job in trucking or the in's and out's about skills. But , today I was blessed in a truly wonderful way and feel lead to post this.

I hope I don't offend anyone!

God has truly blessed me with this website. Thank you Brett for creating it and thank you to all the Moderators and members who make this such a wonderful place to come to find out about the TRUTH about trucking.

I was contacted by another member today through the private message, asking about my advice about being Clean and Sober for almost 7 years now. ( 3-24-14 ) will be 7 years for me. They didn't want to post about it and i can understand why. That is why I am posting instead. It took heart for him to contact me and I want him to know that. You would all be amazed at how many truck driver out there struggle with either alcohol or drug addiction. More than you think. And with the regulations like they are today it is even harder for a recovering addict to get a job and sometimes impossible for him to keep one.

Back years ago when I first began to drive, many a truck driver were popping pills to stay awake to get that next load delivered. I am sure today that they still do, a long with many other dangerous and life threatening, mind altering chemicals and behaviors just not right for the trucking industry or life in general.

I have read many a post about the troubles of those who are trying to get into trucking after having drug or alcohol related issues. It's hard as hell! But, it is not impossible.

My main point for the post is about those who are recovering. For those who are out there. You are not alone! I know that is cliche', but it's the truth. Driving a truck can make it even harder on those who are recovering. You may feel that you are too separated from you support system and the stress of the job can really get to you. But their are many other support systems out there for you. Spiritual chapels at many of the truck stops across the country are there just for a person like ourselves. You have the radio, CD's, CB radio, books and even the Bible to help you through your day. The internet has many a support group out there as well.

As I told the person who contacted me. One of the main things I start my day with is a devotional book called, "God Calling." It gives me something to think about all day that is productive to my life. The biggest thing though is how I see life. It's why I became a truck driver in the first place. Which is probably why deep down inside the reason you became one too, or are thinking about becoming one. Anyone can drive a truck, but it takes a special person to BE A TRUCK DRIVER! So, you have a head start already in the "special department."

The short version of my story. I began drinking at the age of 6. I was a functioning alcoholic by the age of 9. I used to take gin to school in my thermos. I was court ordered to attend a AA meeting at the age of 9. It didn't do much good for me, but of the 50 or so people there that night, I'm pretty sure it probably changed one life. I drank and did drugs for the better part of 40 years. I am 51 now. A long time. During those years I drove a truck for almost 14 years. I have had two DUI's. Luckily neither was in a commercial vehicle. I have not driven in the last 6 years, but have just started back. I am lucky to have my CDL's again, but more than that, I am lucky to be alive.

I know their are other stories out there. I know many are struggling now. What ever you do, DON'T GIVE UP! You have a responsibility behind that wheel. Don't abuse it. Don't disrespect it. And Don't get behind that wheel under the influence.

For all those who are struggling. God Bless you! You are in my prayers as you are in many more I am sure. My private messaging is open to all who wish just to vent or talk. I may not be on here as often as I should and today made me think that I need to do a better job. I believe that God lead me to this website. This is another one of those things in life that I never thought I would be doing. But, I have been truly blessed since I joined. Their are many more options out there to keep you clean and sober. Join one of the many trucking charities out there. So many people need our help. The gift you will receive will be far greater than just your sobriety.

I know I have babbled and I apologize. But, tonight what it means to be a truck driver rang true tonight. It's about helping others. It's what we old school guys have talked about so much. And I see that it is very much still alive in the hearts of many truck drivers through out this nation. Thank you Jesus! I'll end with this poem:

There once was a boy who through confusion and pain, came to a place where everyone was the same. He laughed and he cried, and cried then some more; until one special day, true love walked through the door. This love it was special. Oh, how bright it did shine. A true loving friendship, for the boy and in time. Now how would you figure this friendship would come to be? But, only through the Grace of God, He sent You to meet Me!

Merry Christmas to ALL of the TruckingTruth Family. To all the family members of the drivers on the road. God Bless you ALL. Traveling mercies as you drive here and there. And as always, may the dreams of You (The Truck Driver) be ever so joyful on the hearts and minds of your families each night.

God Speed Be Safe.

Very Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you too and be safe out there. hopefully if all goes well I will be joining ya'll out there.

Great post Tracey! Merry Christmas to you as well.

I learn something everytime I talk to you. Thank you for everything!

Merry Christmas Tracey And Every1 On TT.. I have been sober going on 14 yrs. in March 2014.. I stopped from a 30 pack a day to cold turkey I thought at first my wife wanting me to stop would soon pass.. After a few weeks we made it through my moods and weakness together.. And today my family knows the beers in the fridge is safe.. My neices and nephews know when uncle JC says he needs a beer it is coffee or Dr.Pepper... Everyone Be Safe Out There....

It's totally amazing how I always seem to get what I need, on this site.. As the start of my new adventure begins, with my CDL classes starting on Jan 6th, my girlfriend and I were just reflecting this evening about our drinking days, how lucky we are to be alive and sober. She with 8 years and me with 15. Lots of Gratitude this evening for my HP for without I would never have a chance on starting this new career..

Happy Holidays and be safe out there!

Tracey, it's truly a blessing to have you and so many other awesome people here in this forum. It's taken some time for this group to come together slowly over the years but what an incredible group it has become! In a world where selfishness, negativity, and a lack of compassion seem to rule the day we've shown that there are still a lot of people out there with tremendous character, integrity, and compassion. And I enjoy ever minute of my time here in this forum with everyone!

Tracey, it took a ton of courage for you to share that story and it's going to help so many people! And it's not just people who have suffered from drug and alcohol issues, but people who have suffered any sort of issues in their past that they thought they might never overcome. It's never too late to decide you want to live a better life. And if you need a hand getting the ball rolling there are people out there who will do all they can to help and support your efforts.

Thanks a ton for sharing that Tracey and for finding the time to come by in spite of your incredibly busy schedule. We always appreciate any time you can scrape together.

Thank you guys. With a lump in my throat and those tender tears is my eyes, I thank you!

Daniel, you are AMAZING!

Brett, you my friend are a blessing to us all!

Roger, I am humbled. It is amazing what happens here. God Bless you and yours.

CortaroAz, what a wonderful accomplishment. That was not easy. Love is so strong!

Svetlana, it will go well and we will see you on the byways! Merry Christmas.

Hands Palm to Palm

Tracey, That was a great testimony I was truly blessed by it. I only tried drinking once when I was around twelve years old and I decided that was not a life I wanted to live. I never did drugs either again was not the kind of life I wanted. I had an alcoholic stepfather which was another deterrent tor me. But the greatest thing that changed my life at age twelve was I was born again, I gave my life to him and He has kept me all these years. At age 57 He is still my guide,and my shield. Again great testimony of how He can transform one's life because your life is a testimony of that. I hope to meet you face to face one day, maybe when I go solo I will get through Newman and will get a chance. God Bless and have a Blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.

Wow Tracey.

Very strong story. It stirs up a lot of emotions in myself as it causes me to reflect on my on life and the lives of those that are near and dear to me. Although I may not personally suffer from a drug or alcohol adiction, about 80% of my family on both sides suffer from some form of addiction. Tracy you are a blessing to this community. Not only as a member but as a steward of wisdom, precedent, and recovery.

God bless and Merry Christmas!

Now I think it would be best if I reached out again to some of my family that is currently struggling at remind them that they are never alone.