Uber Hope

by Rod Smith

It’s not a widely known but I drive Uber some days. 

And, just short of 1500 trips over 2.5 years, I love it.

I love it because driving for Uber allows me to meet people I would otherwise hardly have the opportunity to meet.

In the process I’ve become thoroughly aware that it is often the so-called rich who are truly poor, and the poor, who are often really rich.

Uber rides are often reserved by providers of specialized services. These organizations (like adult day-care centers, hospitals, rehab facilities) reserve the rides for the clients.

We either bring the passenger to  such services or take the passenger home after the services have been rendered.

Last night I picked up a man (J) and his support dog (D) who were headed for a rehabilitation facility.

J and D entered my vehicle in quiet humility. We chatted about many things in our hour-long drive. We talked about cars and healthy living. We talked about our sons and daughters. J offered brief and poignant insights into some of the pain he has endured.

J revealed the hope he was experiencing as we drove to what would be his home for at least a number of weeks. 

He gave me hope for my future as he revealed his hope in his own.

One Comment to “Uber Hope”

  1. Tori Sheppard's avatar

    Hi Rod I sent this to my 81 year old dad who has been driving for Uber because I knew he would relate to your experience. He sent this back: ” I also drive with Uber.  I’ve had over 11,000 rides over 6 years.   I have never had a dangerous, threatening or really rude rider.  It has been a good experience. I’ve helped all types of handicapped or ill riders with doctor’s appointments, hospital visits, home health facilities, retirement homes, dialysis center trips, etc.  I’ve even had blind riders with their service dogs.

    Since I drive in a city with hundreds of years of interesting history, I love sharing historical trivia with my riders, and I get great reviews, not only as an Uber driver, but also as a quasi-tour guide.  It’s a fun hobby. ”

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