Is it possible our society is so harsh that when someone like Michael Jackson dies – the first thing that comes to mind is criticism and jokes? Can we not remember the talent he shared with us... the good he did... the positive messages of most of his songs? When we remember – is it only the bad? When we are called home – is that what we hope our Lord and Master is like?I grew up with him - he's just a year and a half older than me. He and his brothers grew up in front of America.... along with the Osmond’s. What a handsome family - great talent – pressure - sorrow. It was clear to me after the parabolic launch to stardom from Thriller and Bad... he was a troubled soul. Yes, the surgery.... the strangely white skin. But the messages of his songs held clues – and the childlike nature - came through loud and clear. Here is a talented and troubled soul. This is not an uncommon theme – he told his wife, Lisa Marie Presley, he would probably die tragically like her father.
At work on Thursday - the jokes flew. The memories of the scandalous child molestation allegations. His strange lifestyle…. Does he somehow deserve this? News will probably trickle out over time – possibly some “truth”. I would not want his life.
Reality is – he left us something beautiful… I chose to remember those things that Michael came with naturally and thrilled us with. God bless his family in trying to leave his kids with some dignity and validation.
