Trying Something New

I spent Saturday night in Lancaster hanging out with a buddy of mine listening to a grunge rock band at a bar called Maxdon's.

The band, "Going for Broke", was shaking the timbers with a high energy sound that generated a small mosh pit by the end of their set.

It wasn't the kind of place I've visited in a few years, but one that use to see my shadow a long time ago.

I didn't have enough 'ink' to blend in with the crowd, but no one really stands out when your head is bouncing in unison with the beat and the mosh pit is bumping into the band and people seated up front.

Trying something new again at the age of 44.

Not old by presidential standards, but old enough to know better. Hopefully.

The Democratic National Convention (or the spring break of the campaign) is in full swing with the GOP waiting for their turn.

Inspirational speakers, party unity, lobbyists galore and the candidates make-all or break-all address to the nation.

Not a bad week.

I watched the DNC on opening night with anticipation and curiosity.

I'm trying to block out everything I've been inundated with at the station over the past six months about the candidates strengths and liabilities and give each man his chance in the spotlight.

Looking at the two candidates, I am reminded of the 1992 presidential election between George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

Older, more seasoned political veteran versus a young, engaging and energetic newcomer.

Bush was a former VP and head of the CIA, while Governor Clinton wailed on his saxophone on "Arsenio".

I'm not sure if Obama plays a musical instrument, but he's singing a song of 'change'.

I'm not afraid of change (hence the grunge concert), it's the 'direction' that both candidates are proposing that has me sitting up and listening intently.

Not that much of what any candidate says has any bearing on what they will actually be able to accomplish once they become President, but it's a start.

I'm just hoping for a little more clarity when the convention's are over.

And not the ear-ringing, mosh pit crashing confusion that political campaigns seem to emulate.