-Isms: Views on life in rural America

Oh, to be on the edge of 17 again, ready to explore the world, ready to Turn The Page and start a new chapter of life.

One of my parents told me, at the time, I thought I knew everything, that my worldly experiences offered a depth of knowledge unrivaled by my peers.

So wait, Mom and Dad. Sarcasm noted. I didn’t know everything? Wow.

Admit it, you, too, thought you knew it all when you graduated and couldn’t wait to leave the nest to fly on your own.

Life at 17 doesn’t offer the same concerns as what weighs heavy on my heart as I near 60.

Then, my biggest worries, beside what college courses I would register for, were about the boyfriend, date night outfits and perfecting our disco dance moves.

Frivolous, right?

Now, family - because you never stop worrying about your kids - and health and dealing with the aftermath of losing my dad during a pandemic and running a small business keep me awake at night.

Date night is infrequent and if Scott and I tried to bust a move, Saturday Night Fever-style, one or both of us may break a hip ... although we’ve been known to have a Friday night dance party in the kitchen. Usually one or more of the grandkids join in, though.

Oh, how priorities change.

Would I do things differently if I could go back in time or make a quantum leap? Sure, hindsight is 20/20. And, God knows I made mistakes along my path.

If I could rewind to my high school graduation day, I would make a few changes, like choosing a less-expensive undergraduate experience and actually going to law school, as I planned since eighth grade.

Otherwise, a change in course wouldn’t make me, well, me.

When you’re 17, you envision this world you want to create and build. Along the way, though, you learn to adjust, reset and restart, and, finally, discover what matters.

I thought about that the other day while I flipped through my senior memory book, reading advice from classmates, friends and teachers, written 42 years ago.

What’s crazy is that the pearls of wisdom remain true today: Never stop dreaming. Aim for the stars.

And, from my high school principal: Do not let success change who you are. Remember your roots. Stay humble.

I’ll add to it, be kind.

I share these words with the class of 2021 as a reminder to remember your purpose, strive to be the best version of you, reach for the stars and remember, every path leads home.

Sure, you’re in a hurry to leave now, but the day will come when you crave the comfort of home and familiarity.

Good luck, graduates. We’re cheering for you.