In the parable of the prodigal son, we find a narrative of love and redemption that resonates through the ages. As I reflect on my own life, there have been moments where I, too, needed to make a U-turn — both on the literal highways of my trucking journey and on the spiritual path. The prodigal son’s story is one of coming to oneself, realizing the wrong direction, and returning humbly to the father’s embrace.
There’s a peculiar feeling when you acknowledge being on the wrong side of the highway, a realization that prompts a crucial decision — to keep going or to make a U-turn. In life, the spiritual U-turn is akin to admitting our wrongs, confessing our sins, and facing the direction God intends for us.
The twists and turns of my trucking life often mirror this spiritual journey. Many times, I’ve found myself needing to ask, “What am I doing? Where am I going?” It’s the moment of recognizing that I’m headed north when I should be headed south — a call to make a U-turn. Similarly, when spiritually lost and disconnected from God, the only way to find the right path is to make a U-turn toward Him, admitting our mistakes and seeking His guidance.
In the midst of my own journey, I recall the significance of my parents’ property in North Idaho, which had a trail named the Prodigal’s Trail. It was a place for reflection, a path through nature where one could contemplate life’s actions. The Prodigal Son was a frequent topic, underscoring the importance of returning with humility to the father or master to regain one’s life.
The parable’s second part introduces the older brother, who resents the prodigal son’s acceptance despite his wayward deeds. It challenges us to examine whether we play the role of the judgmental brother or the prodigal son, returning with humility to the father.
In my trucking career, U-turns were strictly forbidden by Knight Transportation due to safety concerns. Attempting such a maneuver in a semi-truck, especially on a public road, can lead to accidents and even fatalities. The strict policy arose from a tragic incident where a driver’s U-turn resulted in a collision, underscoring the consequences of not paying full attention and getting into a bind.
Our return to God parallels this cautionary tale. A half-hearted commitment and lack of self-awareness can hinder our spiritual U-turn, leaving us stuck or pushing us further away from God. As Elder Aemilianos of Simonopetra Monastery, Mt. Athos wisely noted, “Many confess, but few repent.” True repentance requires genuine self-awareness, a turning away from our old path, and a focused commitment to God’s direction.
The prodigal’s U-turn is not just a narrative from ancient times; it’s a timeless call to self-reflection and spiritual course correction. Much like the cautious avoidance of U-turns in the trucking world, our return to God demands attention, sincerity, and a true commitment to the journey of redemption. May we all find the grace to make that crucial U-turn and embrace the mercy waiting for us in the Father’s arms.
Just be aware of what you’re doing, when it’s time to turn around.
Thanks for reading, I’ll see you next time.
-Orthodox Trucker
Orthodox Trucker 