I never cared much for the bus ride to school when I was growing up. Maybe that was because we were the first ones on and the last ones off every day, and at least ten hours of my week was spent sitting on that thing.

But by the time I got to high school, my perspective changed a little thanks to a kid named Chris Arno. Chris was a few years older than me, and on occasion he would ride our bus home in the afternoons. He was probably one of the friendliest and nicest guys in the entire school who never played favorites when picking a seat on our crowded bus.

When we’d get to his stop, he’d always be the last one in his group to get off, and without fail, he’d look back and tell our driver, “Thanks for the ride, Sherri!”

Chris did this every time he rode, and every time, it caught me off-guard. Who thanks the bus driver for driving the bus? It was as funny as it was thoughtful.

It was Chris’ gratitude that made me think differently about my attitude toward our daily rides to school and back. Maybe these long, bumpy rides were more than just something I had to endure while getting an education; perhaps they were a privilege I was blessed to have.

I know the good folks at roux weren’t obligated to hire me in any way, but late last fall, I found myself between jobs and they offered me a ride. Just like the bus growing up, roux pulled up, let me on, and took me exactly where I needed to go. Now, as changes on the home front have affected my schedule, I can see my stop coming up. It’s time for me to get off, but like Chris, I want to be sure to thank my driver.

Thank you, roux, for being there right when I needed you. You were not only right on time, but you were welcoming in every way. Thank you for the contribution you allowed me to make to the wonderful work you do, even if only on a very small scale. As you and your passengers travel on to more exciting places, I will be thinking of you and feeling grateful for the privilege of my season with you.

Thanks for the ride, roux!