Reply #14: I've spent a lot of time

[kimi]

this summer on the road especially between southern Iowa and the DC area due to family obligations, and so, have had a lot of time to think about truckers since I see them a lot on I80 and I70. Also, I've driven a lot in the past on I80 and I35 through Wyoming and Colorado. (I much prefer the Western areas to the Iowa and east interstates :) )

I do believe truckers are a special type. I've learned a lot about driving etiquette from them i.e. pull to the passing lane for stopped vehicles on the side of the road, blink headlights for clearance on vehicles which have passed, etc., but yes, I've also wondered how they deal with the solitude. On the one hand, it could seem to be a real blessing for a soul in turmoil who needs quietude, OTOH, it might be a real hazard in a way for someone who craves human companionship and conversation. I don't know that there's a happy medium but I admire folks who can do that sort of work. Really, it can be the best and worst of all possible worlds, IMO.