We want it because...well, we just do.

Sometimes we don't get what we want because we don't know exactly why we want it, or how much we want it compared to other things with a claim on our limited resources. Know what I mean? No? Well, this column is a prime example of what that can look like.

OK, so what do they want anyway?

If you're over 45 or so and don't have strong and not-very-comfortable feelings about the social, political, environmental and economic legacy we're leaving to the next generations, then this week's column probably won't speak to you.

There's not much value in beating our breasts and wailing about the raw deal we're passing on. Hearing from younger folks, though, about the support they need as they step up to take on this deeply bruised world -- that's worth our careful attention. This is an important list.

First Obama, then Obubba: Medford's on the map

One week after Barack Obama's flashy mid-March visit, Bill Clinton strolled into our off-the-fast-lane town of Medford. He was at the top of his game at North Medford High, reminding a crowd of a 1000+ and (through the national media) everyone else, that it's not over until it's over.

That's because most of the Democratic superdelegates. When you really start thinking hard about the superdelegates, you get close to the center of what's wrong. That's what I did this week, and this is what came out.

Obama's stated but unheard message, #2

This column is mostly a shortened, op-ed version of the previous post, noting how much Obama is talking about REALLY Taking America Back and wondering if we're listening.

What do you think?

And most importantly: should it be "Obamamania" or "Obamania?"

Using Obama: A Context for Immense Possibilities Radio

Barack Obama blew through our little town of Medford last weekend, dishing up hope and an unexpected opportunity to talk about how my new venture, Immense Possibilities Radio, fits into the mix. I accepted an offer to write a long-form article for the fascinating Ashland periodical Sentient Times to announce IPR's launch into the world. The link between Obama's visit and IPR came to me at the end of his Medford speech, when after listing great goals he said “That’s what can happen when YOU set the agenda. When democracy works the way it should. It requires you to be involved. It’s not enough just to vote…you and I together, we can change the country and change the world!”

What struck me was how often we've heard that in stump speeches and how little we act on it. That's exactly what I want IPR to take on, and that informed the essay. See what you think.

Some brilliant specifics on what we've been talking about

Rabbi Michael Lerner of Tikkun Magazine has hit it out of the park again, putting into very clear terms what leadership that fosters true, necessary citizenship would look like. Take a look at this excerpt from one of his recent postings.

I highly recommend Tikkun, not least because of its laser clarity on the Middle East mess.

The Real Reason We Have to Take Names

People in my town argue over whether those who post comments on the newspaper's public forum should have to identify themselves. Some say that would put one more hurdle in the way of free expression, which is in short supply as it is. Others say posters would be less brazenly obnoxious, and the level of discourse would rise, if everyone gave had to pin a real name to the post.

I think something more serious is at stake here. That's what Tidings column #4 is about.