Collideoscope

I've recently turned my attention to Bono again. For one thing, he's back in the news with his new mission to get presidential candidates on board with his One campaign. For another, U2 figures prominently in my ongoing study of all things Ireland. Finally, when observing the interaction of culture and spirituality, U2 continues to turn up in unexpected places.

I was in Barnes & Noble the other day and came across Bono's new book, On the Move, which is really the text of his speech at the National Prayer Breakfast with added graphics and pictures. The speech moved me incredibly. Here's a guy with super rock star status who refuses to just kick back and live the rock star lifestyle. Rather, he uses his influence and means to effect change in our world. His sincerity and determination come through in his words-and deeds. Whatever cause you live for, his speech will inspire you to do more.

Then I realized that in ancient times Irish history was passed down orally, through songs, poems and stories. U2 has captured much of modern Irish history through its art (Sunday Bloody Sunday, Where the Streets Have No Name, for example). That alone distinguishes them from the "3 chord" rock bands of the day.

I found this blog that spawned from a book that takes U2 songs and offers spiritual meditations on them. There's no denying the spiritual component in their music (follow Jared's advice and listen to Yahweh).

I'm not sure what I'm trying to say by all of this. I guess it's just that it appears to me that Bono and co. are significant parts of the worldwide culture and are not your typical ego driven, rock star living musicians.