Memories of the great King

Michael Jackson …. a huge influence on my beloved music style, growing up. Oh how I thrilled to dance along with his awesome music videos. I had all of his early vinyl records (wonder where they are now?) and often plastered my bedroom walls with his handsome rockstar King smile (always with a twinkle in his eye, like the glimmer of Tinkerbell’s magical dreams). He was an idol of mine growing up, indeed. This utmost respect andadmiration continued on into my adult years. To a time when my innocence and naivety waned, yet belief of all that is good existed and remained. When the days of judgement bore down on Michael, accusations of child molestation, I truly was a disbeliever. Acquitted on all 10 counts filed against him, I celebrated in his purity and innocent child-like wonder. He mirrored such raw huge talent, but reflected back a boy-like wonder that never left him.

Today I watched and cried as the world mourned and memorialized MJ at the Staples Theatre in LA. A most befitting tribute to a King. THE King. It was strange to simultaneously witness the live CNN streaming of Facebook profile updates that either glorified or vilified this man so dear to my heart. I couldn’t understand why some people chose to disrespect this man, his family and friends during a time when millions paid their last respects? Can you imagine that happening, say at a funeral of your dear friend or sibling? Incredibly sad and disrespectful are words that come to mind. I say this in light of having lost my own brother, and recalling the pain of loss and finality. So easy to judge. As Michael would say, why not look at the man in the mirror.

I’m Starting With The Man In
The Mirror
I’m Asking Him To Change
His Ways
And No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
Take A Look At Yourself, And
Then Make A Change

With the title of ‘King of Pop’ comes the pitfalls and serious problems which blur reality and fiction. It’s a crazy world we live in where there are more people focussed on the likes of ‘Kate & Jon’, etc. than the ailing weaping wounds found elsewhere in our world in … Iraq / Iran / Afghanistan / Darfur / Poverty / War (the lists are unending) You name it, we look for releases / avenues of escapism from the woes which are untouchable from afar (human suffering around the world) but wreak havoc on our emotions if we let it. We look to the likes of Celebrity as a means of idolization. But, for me, in my adoration of MJ, I looked at his incredible talent which he gifted to the world, my world. I only have to listen to ‘Rock With You’ or ‘Remember the Time’ or even ‘Thriller’ to take me to a happy place and a time in my history when his music had a huge emotional impact on my being and my childhood. His craft and musicianship left me often speechless. And that had nothing to do with hearing about who and what and when he did whatever. His music was powerful. And I loved him, for all that he was, in light of his humanity and imperfections. Beyond that, I look to the contributions he made … countless charities; children’s organizations; world hunger; musical genres stretched and musical milestones achieved (beyond anyone’s imagination); and, above all, MJ inspired those around him to dream of potential in a world where minorities are often crucified for their skin colour / beliefs / actions / innocence. Michael stretched the boundaries of public opinion and personal change (to the consternation of many). He however repeatedly dusted himself off after being knocked down. He may have stepped back into hiding in his darkest hours, but rebound he did.

His latest impending comeback was especially exciting for me. I seriously contemplated buying tickets to his concerts being held in the UK at the O2. In fact, had MJ lived, today would have been his first comeback concert, July 7. Tragic and heartbreaking indeed. He was one performer I would have spent thousands to witness live in concert. Gone too soon indeed. Not just for me or for his billions of fans. But for the 3 children he left behind. I can’t imagine losing a Father, especially at such a young age.

I honour you Michael for your life here on this earth. Thank you for your music, your innocence and contributions. MJ will surely have met his maker and judge on June 25, 2009. Bless his soul. May he rest in peace.

May all those that have passed before us rest in peace, free from the suffering and burdens placed upon us as we live from breath to breath, moment to moment. Blessings to all.
Amen.