‘Hands Across America’ played on hearts; ‘Arms Locking America’ protects the nation’s heart

In 1986, deluded youth (myself included) thought they could change the world by listening to a feel-good song while forming a line that stretched from sea-to-sea across America. Undeniably, it was a moment of believing that Americans could actually work together to benefit humanity, even if it was for the hour or so standing side-by-side chatting about mundane things and enjoying the company of strangers. But it was a passing encounter that didn’t sink into the hearts of participants because, after the brief fellowship, most hiked back to their vehicles and drove off to their everyday lives, having actually changed nothing except experiencing a short respite from the daily grind.