Gratitude, Glamour, and Grit: How Confidence and Purpose Became The CDL Queen’s Beauty Routine
- Nov 19
- 2 min read
By Charlene Inez Arnold
“The CDL Queen,” Mrs. Maryland 2026, United States of America & Founder of DriveHER Foundation
There was a time in my life when I didn’t see beauty in the mirror—not because it wasn’t there, but because life had covered it with layers of exhaustion, doubt, and survival. I was a single mother of five, sleeping in a truck with my children, trying to rebuild our lives one mile at a time. Today, I stand on stages as Mrs. Maryland 2026, a certified CDL examiner, and the founder of the DriveHER Foundation, using my platform to empower women to find confidence, career, and community.
My journey taught me that beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about purpose, gratitude, and grit.
For years, I associated beauty with external things—makeup, clothes, or how society defined “put together.” But beauty, I learned, is born in the quiet moments when you choose to keep going. When you show up despite fear. When you thank God for another sunrise, even when you don’t know how the day will end. Gratitude became my mirror. Every time I said“thank you,” I saw more of the woman I was created to be.
Now, my self-care routine starts with gratitude. Before mascara or moisturizer, I remind myself of how far I’ve come. I take time to sit still, reflect, and thank the Most High for the lessons that shaped me. Gratitude softens the face, opens the heart, and shines brighter than any highlighter. Confidence rooted in thankfulness is the real glow-up.
In my world—trucking, education, and empowerment—glamour may look a little different. My “runway” is often a training yard or classroom, and my heels are sometimes traded for steel-toe boots—though I still wear both proudly. When I show up with gratitude, poise, and a polished mindset, I carry an elegance that no circumstance can take away. That’s the kind of beauty I want every woman to embrace—the kind that says, I am here on purpose.
Through the DriveHER Foundation, I now help women across Maryland and beyond gain access to CDL training, childcare, housing, and career opportunities. Many arrive feeling broken, unseen, or unworthy—but by the time they leave, they see their worth reflected back in every mile they drive. We talk about self-worth, we celebrate small victories, and we learn that gratitude is the first step to transformation. When a woman believes in herself, she can change not only her reflection but her reality.
My pageant journey has also deepened my love for femininity and service. Wearing this crown isn’t about outer beauty—it’s about carrying a message of hope. Whether I’m at a charity event, a golf tournament, or a classroom of future drivers, I remind women: your story isn’t over just because you hit a detour. Every scar, every setback, and every triumph adds to your sparkle.
Gratitude taught me that true glamour is grace in motion—the ability to keep shining, to keep giving, and to keep believing that you are worthy of joy. Beauty is the reflection of a grateful heart, and I hope every woman who reads this remembers: no matter where you start, you can rewrite your story with gratitude, glamour, and grit.
Connect With Charlene
TikTok: @cdlqueen214
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