Isms: Views on life in rural America

Someone recently asked me to describe district wrestling since they have never attended.

It’s a glimpse of pure joy, and a view of intense heartbreak. Tears flow - win or lose - after you’ve invested energy and headspace to an activity that pushes you to physical and mental limits.

Nothing wrong with tears. It’s the culmination of sweat equity, countless practice sessions, prayers for a healthy season. Over the last two weekends, I watched several athletes who let the liquid flow following matches. It’s a humbling - and suitable - response, win or lose.

I hope those athletes realize their wort...