In my last article, I discussed the many benefits and advantages of online car and truck forums. However, there was one issue that I felt deserved an article all to its own.

Among auto enthusiasts, there exists something greater that goes beyond the trophies and the shows. There is a sense of family among all of us, with a desire to create something unique. Of course there are various genres within the scene, but we all consider one another enthusiasts nonetheless.

I, myself, am a diehard mini-trucker, with ideas and concepts constantly pouring into my mind for new suspension and body modifications. Yet, I'll be the first one to compliment a hot rodder or import fanatic for thir newest creation. Just because I'm partial to mini trucks doesn't mean that I also don't recognize a clean custom when I see one because we're all out for the same thing: to build the baddest ride the world has ever seen.

Sure, trophies and shows are all part of what we do, but there is so much more to it than that. It's the late nights with friends getting that body drop done before the next show or the drag sessions on random Tuesday nights. It's the feeling of knowing that if I break down on the highway during a cruise that nearly ever other car will stop to help, whether I know them or not.

One of the most rewarding things to come from this lifestyle are the friends that you meet. I've met so many people through shows and online forums that I'll be sure to know someone at every show. It's the idea of a giant community of enthusiasts brought together for the sole purpose of awesome rides and good times. It's something that is easy for us to understand yet hard for outsiders to grasp.

Now, I'm not going to say that there aren't rivalries among the genres or that everyone is in it for these reasons. As far as I am concerned, if you're in it for just trophies, you're in it for all the wrong reasons. But for those of you who think like I do, you know what I mean. I think Wyatt Strange, a fellow mini trucker.

"We have become part of something much more complicated than you or I will ever fully comprehend. We build more than just trucks. . . we build friendships, we build futures, we build our dreams. We drive our trucks low and hold our heads high because we have an unwritten and unspoken agreement that we will live life to the fullest and never fall victim to 'the norm'. Others laugh at us when we spend hours on end working on our trucks, yet shake our hands when we are done. What we do is not just a hobby, it's a way of life. If you are in this for the trophies, you are in this for the wrong thing. The REAL trophies are not won at shows, they are won in the local parking lots. They are the handshakes, the smiles, and the head nods that you receive. We build what we want, to be noticed, but not just to impress people. We build what we like. When others ask why you ride so low, ask them, why don't you ride low? Laugh, get in your ride, and drag the hell out of it. Look back in the rearview mirror and you will see the best trophy of them all...their jaw on the ground."

Almost brings a tear to your eye, doesn't it? Until next month, keep your head high and truck low.

Gauge Columnist
Justin Wynn