by Kathy Mickelson

I am a fan. I fell in love with U2 in high school 23 years ago. I have lived my life with their musical accompaniment. This was my third show this tour. I willingly made the 6 hour drive from Minneapolis to Omaha in a snowstorm. At 10:00p.m. the line formed. About 20 of us slept outside in the freezing temps and bitter winds, against our better judgement. A couple slept on the pavement with a space heater next to their face for warmth. A family of 8 gathered together as part of their Christmas celebration. They slept, or attempted to sleep, in chairs huddled together and when the howling wind blew and the sleet and snow pelted, their defense was a plastic tarp. Meanwhile, the warm glow from our hotel shown from across the street. Just as one sister questioned how to know if hypothermia sets in, the QWest Center allowed us inside (10:00a.m.). We began to thaw.

The difficult portion of our quest was over. Our tickets did not scan into the ellipse, but 1 of the 5 line jumpers in front of me did. I seized the tip of the ellipse, sorrounded by others connected to this band.

When Bono walked out of the depths of darkness and into the light of COBL, the symbolism was not lost on me. He said we were going to start a fire inside the arena. A spark ignited and the exchange of energy between performers and audience blazed in an unforgettable fire. Oh you look so beautiful tonight, Omaha! Bono commented on this feeling of warmth by saying that they had a new home in Omaha. Even the tough woman security guard was moved to tears when the young girl sat on the stage next to Bono echoing "No More!".
Memories I will treaure forever were Bono's "Siiiiing" note in SYCMIOYO in front of me, LAPOE, Bono chasing Edge around the ellipse -couldn't catch him even though Edge was playing his guitar, All I Want is You and I Will Follow. I do not criticize their choice of set lists, as I look at the show as a theatrical piece with content that takes the person on a journey.
The Desire guy next to me (Sidney's dad) was given a guitar pick by Dallas and handed a drumstick by Bono after LAPOE. This meant the world to this guy. To be in the presence of the camaraderie, spirit and heart of thes fans was the gift I received. A gift the line jumpers did not receive. U2 draws out what is great in us all. Thanks U2 for giving US a great life.

Return to previous page | Post a Review of this show!