Throughout the trip, music played a big role in setting the mood. Songs were used to create energy, bring awareness, and create connections.
At the beginning of the trip, our bus was filled with kids who believed the world revolved around them. They were the center of their own universe, and believed they were the center of ours. Being a ME is not their fault, merely a product of hormones and the age. On the drive to NY the MEs chatted only with their friends, not expanding their conversation to include others around them. The adults however mingled just enough to create a little craziness, soon pulling up a playlist that might inspire the kids to let loose. Although that did not happen, we did use music to ensure the kids understood the impact the Beatles had on American music and how the death of John Lennon stunned a nation - Strawberry Fields Forever and Imagine.
After getting a taste of NYC during the day we headed for Times Square to see the glitz and glitter. Adding to the hype of the lights and sounds, we played On Broadway and New York New York. The singing mostly came from the team leaders, again showing the kids we were willing to have fun. Leaving NYC we gave them another chance to sing with Frank Sinatra - a few more voices being heard this time.
Now on the road to Philly, the kids survived NYC and the MEs have now disappeared. They are moving into the WE stage, accepting their small groups and trusting their team leaders. Having a successful day together in small groups, we left Philly with Philadelphia Freedom and the theme from Rocky.
Moving onto Amish country we pleaded with the kids to get up and dance. Giving them all the opportunity to request music. At this point the team leaders are settled in and fully comfortable with each other. I think we might actually be scaring the kids with our laughter and chatter. No one dared to make a request, so DJ C-WOW takes control of the microphone and spins songs from the 70-80-90s. When we get about 20 minutes away from the hotel, they decide they want to finally pick the music.
Once in Washington, D.C., we start to play the game Happy Money. A trivia game where the right answer wins dollars. During this game we might ask them to listen to protest songs like MTA, Fortunate Son, and the Ballard of the Green Berets, then we ask for the meaning. This game also helps the kids to focus on the symbolic aspects of the monuments by listening to the words of the songs.
The turning point of the trip is the night at the Pentagon. The small group WEs, now turn into the greater good. They now become an US. Comforting and caring for other, understanding and appreciating the idea of freedom - supporting anyone who needed a friend. The stereotypes that kept them gated in the pens of jock, brainy, geek, or loner are open. They come out as friends that all share the same freedoms. They have begun to understand that their world would work better if they pulled together and be "fully present" for each other. The bus ride home was filled with the words of Kitty Donohoe - There are no words.
These kids have grown with experience and understanding. I only hope they take this unified concept with them to high school next fall. Supporting friends means looking past the differences and helping anyway. We are reminded of this in the inspiring words of Lee Greenwood as we drive away from the national mall - I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today. There ain't no doubt I love this land. God bless the USA.
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