Rideshare Drivers: The Unofficial Therapists
Unofficial Therapists Behind the Wheel
As rideshare drivers, we often find ourselves as more than just chauffeurs driving passengers around. We become listeners, confidants, and sometimes even therapists for our passengers. A trip that has stayed with me for quite some time serves as a poignant reminder of this unique role we play in people’s lives.
On what was meant to be my last ride of the night, I picked up an active-duty Army officer named Ben. In his early 40s, he was visiting Rehoboth Beach for a destination wedding, though he opted to stay outside the beach resort to save some money. As we drove, Ben began to share his story, which struck a deep chord with me. He had recently moved to Washington D.C. from Germany after being stationed there for several years, all because his 5-year-old daughter, Claire, was undergoing treatment for leukemia. And Washington D.C. had the best treatment in the world for her type of leukemia.
Hearing Ben’s story was both heartbreaking and inspiring. He spoke about the challenges of balancing military life with being a father to a child facing such a serious illness. It was a powerful moment, yet I felt a personal tug as I remembered my own uncle, who is currently battling the same type of cancer. It would have been easy to let my emotions spill over, to share my own experiences and concerns. But in that moment, I realized that this ride wasn’t about me. It was about Ben and his need to vent and share his struggles.
I chose to focus on him, giving him the space to express his fears, frustrations, and hopes. So, I just listened and empathized the entirety of the ride. Sometimes, as drivers, we need to set aside our personal stories to allow our passengers the room to share theirs. It’s in these moments of connection that we can truly make a difference.
And as a father of a little girl myself, Ben’s ordeal resonated with me deeply—I don’t want to imagine what it’s like to go through this battle. But I kept my thoughts to myself, choosing instead to support him fully during our brief encounter. I listened as he spoke about the love he had for his daughter and the challenges they faced together. It was a reminder that, while we may have our own battles, sometimes the greatest gift we can offer to someone in need is simply our presence and our attention.
As we arrived at his destination, Ben not only expressed his gratitude for the safe ride, but he also surprised me later with a $15 tip through the app. His appreciation was genuine, and it reinforced the idea that our interactions go beyond a simple transaction. They are meaningful moments that can uplift both the driver and the rider.
So, to my fellow rideshare drivers, remember that you are more than just a driver. You are a listener, a source of comfort, and sometimes even a therapist. Embrace these opportunities to connect with your passengers, and don’t hesitate to let them share their stories. You never know how much of an impact your listening skills can have on someone facing life’s challenges.
Please take a moment to say a prayer for Claire 🙏
