The Ford Explorer has been a part of my life for almost 8 years. And while I have had the option to purchase a newer vehicle, my faith has never waivered in its reliability or worthiness. Over the years I have learned to appreciate the vehicle for more just the sum of its parts. The entire concept of Explorer drives my life’s motivation to continue to reach out and push the boundaries of life itself. Since then, my Explorer has become intricately involved in my life and I have come to have a deeper understanding for it stands for. That is why, in June of 2007, I drove from Oklahoma City to Louisville, Kentucky to take a personal tour of the Ford assembly plant. The very same plant that proudly produced my Explorer many years before. It was on this day, as I walked the production line that I realized my Explorer not only affected my life, but also those who were employed by Ford. My Explorer has not only helped me, it has helped those to raise a family, earn a living, and finish school. My vehicle has touched not just my life, but countless lives. And while the years and miles are starting to show, my Explorer is still just as strong as day one. And while the Explorer’s journey home to Louisville Assembly Plant was for only one day, it confirmed a personal journey for me for a lifetime. Thank you Ford for holding your head high despite the doubters. Thank you for giving me a vehicle I can call my own. And thank you for giving me the courage to face adversity and challenge. Sometimes it takes a trip home to continue forward.

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