I grew up in suburban MT, and was one generation removed from rural MT. I never heard “cowboy up,” but “is there a bone sticking out” definitely checks out. Th

I grew up in suburban MT, and was one generation removed from rural MT. I never heard “cowboy up,” but “is there a bone sticking out” definitely checks out. The stresses of being in a rural state can be good and bad. Even in suburban MT, it would never have occured to my parents to be helicopter parents. Power tools, dangerous play, and “don’t you dare come inside unless you’re bleeding” were all par for the course. But the same stresses that result in kids’ freedom can also overwhelm some people. My own grandfather committed suicide, and I have to wonder if (even in a small town where he was well-loved) less isolation and more mental health services might have given him more years.