Ladies and gentlemen of the Class of 2024…
It’s hard to believe that a quarter-century has passed since I was a wide-eyed high school senior, full of hopes and dreams. As I sit here, a seasoned attorney, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that has brought me to this point. And, curiously, a particular piece of 1990s pop culture keeps resurfacing in my mind: the song “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” by Baz Luhrmann (also known as “The Sunscreen Song”).
The song was an adaptation of an essay that was written as a hypothetical commencement speech by columnist Mary Schmich, which was originally published in June 1997 in the Chicago Tribune.
My Younger Self
Back in 1998, the song’s advice seemed a bit quirky and perhaps even a little preachy or condescending. But as the years have gone by, its wisdom has proven to be timeless. It’ll slip out of my mind for years, only to bounce right back to the forefront when some of the lyrics are relevant to whatever is going on in my life at the time.
If you’ve never heard the song, you may be thinking, “Yea, duh, of course I wear sunscreen.” In 2024, I think (hope) that everyone knows to do this. And while the song does literally encourage everyone to wear SPF, the actual point of the song is to provide deep (yet simple) advice about life — messages about seizing opportunities, cherishing relationships, and learning from mistakes. And while some of them spoke to teenage-me, many were definitely lost on my juvenile mind. What I’ve found since, is that the messaging, so simply yet eloquently spoken, has stayed with me, resonating at just the right time when needed.
Now, as a father, husband, and lawyer, I see the world through a completely different lens than my past self. That goes without saying; but I say it, nevertheless. Dealing with legal issues and the big matters of clients, I’m constantly reminded of how complex and arduous life can be. However, the song is a counterbalance, reminding me that many of the challenges we face in life are rooted in simpler principles.
Timeless Advice is Timeless.
The Sunscreen Song is as relevant today as it ever was, perhaps even more so now than ever. Below are some of my favorite tidbits, when reflecting back.
When pouring through the stacks and stacks of artwork my kids produce, I’m reminded of the advice to “keep your love letters; throw away your bank statements.” And while the song may say love letters… it can be anything, such as a picture of a bird loving on a snail. Keep ’em.
The advice to “don’t worry about the future” is a poignant reminder to live in the present. As a lawyer, much of my professional value comes in anticipating potential problems and doing my best to plan for or mitigate future contingencies. This, of course, bleeds into my personal life. But the song’s advice is great reminder to take a step back, appreciate the moment, and savor the journey.
Similarly, the suggestion to “don’t feel guilty, if you don’t know what you want to do with your life” is a much-needed dose of reassurance. Many young people, especially recent graduates, feel immense pressure to have their lives figured out. But the truth is, it’s okay to take your time, explore different paths, and discover your passions. I bounced my way through the first few years of college. Starting out at MCC (who remembers that??), and taking the W so I didn’t fail out, when balancing work, school, and adult life proved just too damn hard that semester.
Share the Wisdom
At this 25th anniversary of the Sunscreen Song, I urge everyone to revisit its timeless advice. Share it with your children, your students, friends, employees, partners, your strangers, or really just anyone who needs a little guidance. I think of every line in that song as a tiny seed that’s planted — lying in wait, ready to germinate and grow at *just* the right time that it’s needed.
I’m hopeful that this iconic song’s wisdom continues to inspire and uplift future generations, and I wish that my reminder helps it on its journey, even if just a little.
Remember, wear sunscreen.
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