I Go Back

Kenny Chesney is right. Music defines certain periods of our lives.

When I look back at my life, certain moments and events are defined by the music. I can tell you what song we were listening to the first time I heard those three beautiful words "I love you" from a man. Don't ask me because I won't really tell you, but every time I hear it, I go back to that moment.

Bon Jovi and U2 define the years I was in high school and college. The Joshua Tree and Achtung Baby by U2. Slippery When Wet and New Jersey by Bon Jovi. Some songs on each of these albums more than others, but the albums in their entirety send me back instantly.

Last night, Alan and I saw U2 3D at the Imax, which, if I do say so myself, was one of the best ideas I've had recently. The 90 minute movie follows U2 during their 2005-2006 Vertigo tour through South America. In fact, you can see the trailer here. We knew almost all of the songs and they spanned every album. If you have the opportunity, see it. I promise you won't regret it.

The concert movie ended with my favorite U2 song of all time - With or Without You.

With or Without You sends me back to the best week of my high school career. I was privileged enough to participate in The Illinois Citizenship Experience (which sadly, I do not think exists anymore), sponsored by my high school district. The program provided students from across Illinois with an opportunity to explore Illinois government, the political process, and decision making through on-site observation in Springfield (the state capitol). We met with State Senators and Representatives on the floor of the Senate. We visited the Illinois Supreme Court. A budding political wonkette like me was in Heaven.

That week in Springfield was a week I've never forgotten. A number of my closest friends from school were on the trip with me, and I met a girl from a neighboring high school who instantly became part of my inner circle. One of my favorite memories of the week was traveling home on Amtrak, where our huge group took over an entire car. Someone had brought a portable stereo and we sang U2 and Bon Jovi songs all the way home. The friends I was on that trip with are still part of my inner circle and whenever I hear U2 and Bon Jovi, I still go back.