by Karen

I have climbed highest mountains, I have run through the field only to be with U2. It has been awhile since I took to the road to see U2 but the Sacramento show brought me out of my road tour hiatus. Not being able to get tickets where I live in LA and my hometown NY, I was overjoyed when U2 announced they were adding more dates to their Elevation tour, unfortunately the closest concert to me was Sacramento-400 miles away. Since I have traveled literally thousands of miles to see them before - i.e. Dublin and England, 400 miles didn't sound as daunting by comparison. But it did mean another road trip and cheap motel. I must say after Bono and the boys took to the stage every mile just seemed to fade away from my memory. This stripped down concert is reminiscient of the Joshua Tree concerts when the focus is the art not the artifice. The music held such poignancy given the recent tragedy of September 11th. Bono lovingly held our flag much like a mother holds their child after they have been lost and returned to her arms. Knowing that U2 is not a band that embraces colors made it all the more special. Songs like "One" took on a special significance as the names of the victims of September 11th were shown. There was hardly a dry eye in the house. "Please" the song off of the Pop album which they performed seemed strangely prophetic given what has happened. It is songs like these that has made people attribute Bono with "God" like characteristics. "Bad" my favorite U2 song, also seemed so fitting along with the suprise fan favorite "Stand By Me". On a lighter note one fan who I alternately cursed and cheered for being pulled out of the audience by Bono, got to dance with him on the song "Angel of Harlem" I felt very happy for her knowing that I would have love that coveted spot as Bono's dancing partner as she grasped his butt (with only mild protestation from Bono at first followed by encouragement). I couldn't quite bite back my jealously however since I have long dreamed as a New Yorker and Angel of Harlem to sing that song with him on stage and to dance with him. But cheers to her for her great luck. All and all the concert was one of the best I have seen from them. They helped to bring a sense of hope and possibility in a time of loss and despair. U2 reminded us all that "...we are one, but we're not the same. We get to carry each other." If only the whole world could go to a U2 concert and experience the possibilities.

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