Luxury is relative. Especially for a college student.
My first car, the used 1994 Nissan Maxima we found after scouring the classified section of the local newspaper, was a brilliant car. It had everything I needed. Air conditioning, power windows…and a sense of freedom.
One thing it did not have, though, was cupholders. At the time we purchased the car, it didn't seem like a big deal. Who needs cupholders anyway, right?
Turns out, I do.
Over time, I learned how to wriggle my Starbucks cups into a small space between the center console and the emergency brake—which probably wasn't all that safe—so I could drive with two hands on the wheel—which was safe, so it cancels out the emergency brake thing.
My beloved little car taught me a lot of things, like college campus parking lots can be dark at night and so can the cars parked behind you, so look closely before backing up. It also taught me to appreciate the little things, like road trips with friends, hearing your favorite song on the radio and cupholders.
I've had two vehicles since—both of which have had cupholders that I have never taken for granted. They've held my beverages, served as catch-alls for my son's toys and snacks, and even once held enough water to keep a carnival goldfish alive after its plastic bag broke.
Yes, my cupholders are the unsung heroes of my daily commute and family vacations. They should be treated with respect and kindness, certainly better than I treat them.
