and the band played on

To be a Young American is something special indeed. Sorry people of Earth, but it is. Nothing else in the world, nor any wonderful place, can replace the unique excesses, exposure and experimentation possible in that haven of world wealth.
Part of growing up in the US means you become the music of your day. Rock and Roll was born in America and so are young Americans. Someone who speaks for your generation rock and rolls you through your most memorable and horrific times of life. One of the speakers of my young America was R.E.M

Yes, I remember when the dog had 4 legs, and its up-tempo, clean-mouthed rantings and ravings inspired and influenced me into environmental protection, human rights, fair trade, consumer power, political activism and cross-country road trips with my best friends.
Most recently, the boys were at the Garden in NYC last night. Still doing what he has always done so annoyingly well, introducing the last encore, G. Michael said, “George W. Bush is a pathetic idiot. I feel very, very hopeful with 2008.”
Young America. The fountain of youth. Right there.