These are tough times at Port Authority as a possible transit strike looms. Here's what one driver thinks about her job. At 42, Monica Staples of West Mifflin said she can't imagine another position that would allow her to be so free.

Q How did you get started working at the Port Authority?

AI worked for the UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. They were downsizing, and they wanted to give me two jobs for the pay of one. I asked myself what I really wanted to do, and I realized I really enjoyed driving. I asked God to help me. My husband helped me study for the tests. When I showed him the papers [that I passed], he whipped out a ring, and that's how I got engaged. It was one of the best moments of my life!

Q How do you interact with customers?

A My motto is be nice to all customers. I always smile and greet them really nicely. There's a lady, like a bag lady, who's always dirty, and her hair's never done. But I treat them all the same.

Q Who are the most interesting people on your runs?

A I know the people on my routes. I carried my Bible with me a lot. I was on the 84C. That's the Hill loop. There was a guy on Stevenson getting off my bus, and he said, 'the Spirit knows others by their spirits.' He meant one Christian knows another by their spirit. After he got off, he just disappeared.

Q What is the best part of working for the Port Authority?

A I love the freedom. On the bus, I watch the seasons change. I'm driving through neighborhoods covered in ice and snow. And I think I'm needed.

Q Has your job taught you anything?

A You can learn something new every day. The best part is people telling me "thank you." You never know what a person's been through. This girl showed me her pass and sat down. When she got off the bus, her eyes were all red and puffy. She said, "I've been having a really bad day. Everyone's been so mean to me, and I just want to say thank you for being kind to me."