In February 1852, two brothers began making horse-drawn wagons and buggies in South Bend, Indiana.

They eventually transitioned to building automobiles, including electric and gas-powered vehicles. Nearly 160 years later my family attended an auto show in Western New York state where we experienced one of those vehicles for the very first time. Its shiny red paint, clean lines, and chrome trim, reflecting the sun and highlighting its recently waxed exterior, caught the attention of many onlookers.

While exploring the car’s meticulous craftsmanship, its make, year, and model remained unknown to one particular admirer who stated confidently and loudly, “What’s a “Studshaker!”

The Studebaker or on that particular day the “Studshaker” gave us some good laughs and now memories at the expense of that “Car Enthusiast.”

There was also a great lesson derived from this amusing display that underscored the importance of focus, reminding us to stay attentive to details and resist distractions that might blind us to our purpose, where impulsive decisions and statements can lead to unpleasant outcomes that are not always laughable.