“If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.”
- Michael Jackson -
Today much of the world will pause for a couple of hours to watch Michael Jackson's memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Following the news in the days leading up to this event has been much like watching a three-ring circus. Farrah Fawcett died the same day as Michael. There was a lot of coverage of Farrah's battle in the days before her death but the actual event was overshadowed by the unexpected passing of Michael. It's pretty much been all Michael, all the time.
At the very least, it can be said that Michael lived an interesting life. The news has been filled with reports of prescription drug abuse, pedophilic sex scandals and financial troubles. We've heard every new detail of the battles over his estate and custody of his children. We've watched his "Thriller" video over and over again and reviewed the transformation of Michael's face from cherubic black child to brittle white man.
I don't know who the real Michael Jackson was but I will remember him as the beautiful boy who sang with his brothers on the Ed Sullivan show. I will celebrate the gift he gave us in co-writing "We Are The World" and I will sing loudly along with "Billie Jean" whenever it comes on the radio. Dance, music and pop culture will be forever changed by his legacy.
I believe that Michael came into the world loved. I'm certain he went out that way. And while dealing with the in-between part, he shared the gift of his genius with the world and we are the better for it. Rest in peace Michael.
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