-Isms: Views on life in rural America

"Wear sunscreen.”

That is the first piece of advice given in “The Sunscreen Song,” a list of recommendations to the graduating class of 1999, set to music by Baz Luhrmann.

It’s solid advice. Trust me, I wish I’d taken the same guidance when my mom pounded it into my head. I kinda, sorta listened, but when you’re 18, you think you’re invincible, that you are way smarter than everyone else, and you’re going to live life on your terms.

I get it.

Here’s my advice to you, members of the class of 2024.

Be curious. Be willing to learn, even if it’s something you don’t think you’re interested in at th...