by Michael Friedman

Well, after my fourth show of this tour, I finally figured out how to properly describe what I feel like at a U2 concert. It's a Near Death Experience. People who have crossed over during a medical situation describe a feeling of peace, a feeling of contentment, a feeling of bliss. They don't want to go back to their bodies. They want to stay right where they are. That's how I felt tonight at Madison Square Garden and every time I've been blessed to see them perform. It was an amazing, emotional show. Not only was it the first time U2 has played since the World Trade Center tragedy, but it was the day that the I.R.A. finally agreed to disarm. During Sunday Bloody Sunday, Bono grabbed an American Flag and held it to his chest as he hunched over and bowed his head. He then said, "Today is a special day for us, because the I.R.A. has decided to disarm. We're proud of those men who this courageous decision." He brought a girl on stage to play during "Knockin on Heaven's Door" and it was a brilliant and emotional moment. She was wonderful. During "Kite" Bono twice mentioned "Sean" during the "When hip-hop drove the big cars" lyric. I'm guessing he was referring to Puff Daddy who might have been in the audience. During band introductions, he introduced Larry as Deborah Harry, which made Larry smile broadly. During "New York" he brought a girl who was wearing an " I Love New York" t-shirt on stage and then proceeded to lift her on his shoulder and carry her to the mains stage. Before "Out of control" Bono mentioned how they "were four young boys who came to New York City." There were so many moments. Tonight, "Pride" was amazing, complete with the Martin Luther King "we are the people who will get to the Promised Land" video which made the crowd go nuts!! What a night! During "One" Bono talked about the I.R.A. again and how the eighties were a bad time for Irish people and how if an Irish person went to Britain they would be looked at funny. He then went on to talk about how all different types of people could live in New York without being looked at funny. Especially, dignified followers of Islam. So many moments, so many chills, such a wonderful release from the pain and stress of the last six weeks. I got more than I expected. Bono and the band were passionate and energized the entire night. The audience was right with them the entire way. They are such a special group of men and we love them more than we can say. They took me to heaven again tonight. I'm still there and I don't want to leave. I love you U2.
Mike Friedman
Mikea28@aol.com

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