I’m writing this editorial from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in Minnesota, where I am a two-day paddle from civilization. Out here, where there’s no shortage of pine tree–studded islands and rocky outcroppings, a map and the direction of the sun alone only gets you so far. Knowing how to use a compass is an essential skill, one that can keep you from getting lost—or at least get you un-lost if you find yourself confused as to where you are. This knowledge and skill can save hours lost to wrong turns and backtracking.READ MORE