I suspect there will be videos surfacing on YouTube from the endorsement of Sen. Obama by Edward Kennedy. Although, considering the cynicism of those who use and post on YouTube with regularity, I suspect the tenor of that post will not elevate or celebrate the magnitude of the "momentous occasion." Instead, they will probably highlight the three knuckleheads behind the podium that were, at one time or another, yapping on their cell phones during the speeches of Ted Kennedy and Barack Obama.
Despite the prospect for change and the hope for betterment, the opacity of hopelessness underlines the reality that in public settings - speeches and rallies - there will be some youth in America who will seize upon the moment and act like Rudy Giuliani's child during the former mayor of New York City's first inauguration event. This was a moment that David Letterman milked mercilessly on the "Late Show" in 1994. In all fairness, Andrew Giuliani had a reasonable excuse for his immaturity: He was 7. The yahoo standing behind Sen. Obama, the one dancing with the hat, is 20. They may be the same age, but context makes all the difference. Politics is theater, and if you are standing in the bleachers behind the podium, your position is as an extra - your job is not to detract from the spotlight.
Keep the equivalent of keg stands and clowning in your private life, away from the cameras of CNN and MSNBC, and become like attentive and angelic cherubs, applauding at the promise of prosperity the next time you intend on attending a political rally. This way, America does not need to look upon you feeling a little irked and a little bored by your lampooning and rude actions for attention. The same advice can be given to all who are in focus and in the background. These are your 15 minutes; play your part.
John Anderson Adjunct Associate Professor School of Communication
