Every time I return home, my mom greets me with the same puzzled question: “You’re still doing that truck thing?” as if I’ve been stuck in a phase I was supposed to outgrow. My sister, who’s a teacher, often tells me I should “do something more feminine,” suggesting I work in an office or go into education like she did.

And my dad? He offers a polite nod, then quietly comments, “That’s not very ladylike, is it?”

Despite my success, their words sting. I’ve built a solid career, have money saved, and feel proud of what I’ve accomplished. Yet somehow, to them, it feels like I’m just pretending—waiting for the “real me” to show up.

The jokes at family dinners don’t help. Last Thanksgiving, my uncle quipped, “You sure you don’t want a husband to drive you instead?” The room burst into laughter. I didn’t.

What they don’t understand is that I love the early mornings, the quiet highways, and the peace that comes from being behind the wheel. It’s not about breaking stereotypes. It’s about honoring who I truly am.