Michael Jackson 1958-2009
I am still so stunned and saddened at the unexpected loss of Michael Jackson so tragically... I am truly having trouble accepting the fact that he is really gone. I think back on the unimaginable death of Princess Diana, beloved by all, and how in shock I was then too. I think of the lyrics Don McLean penned in his anthem "American Pie", about the death of Buddy Holly being "the day The Music died". The Music, once again, is silent.
I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. My kids grew up listening to Michael Jackson. We still listen to Michael Jackson. The entire world listens to Michael Jackson. To think of all he has contributed in terms of his music, and dance, and innovation, and style....... we're talking a force of global proportion. His music indeed, influenced the world, as only a handful of artists of his caliper have had the power and magnitude to achieve.
*Now, before I go on, I must say..... of course I realize the world also lost our beautiful and brave Farrah Fawcett. Her long battle with cancer was a lesson of courage in the face of death. I followed her story and was saddened to hear of her passing. But I also felt a great sense of relief for her, that she was finally free from such a horrid, cruel illness. I felt that she had been given her wings, and could now be a true angel. I believe that*
People feel at liberty to say some mighty wicked things about Michael Jackson. Well here's what I think. I think Michael never had a real life. I think he was a musical genius. I think he never grew up, never really knew who he was, and just tried his best to piece together the shell of the adult he wanted to be, even though much of him remained a little boy inside. I think he was misunderstood, taken advantage of, and listened to the wrong people a lot of the time. I can't imagine having to live life, never knowing what life really was. But I think his incredible talent gave him something to live for, because his joy was being on stage performing for his fans. And he was an entertainer like no other. And he gave us his gift to cherish.
A gifted, talented, sensitive soul.
You will be sorely missed.
Your music and influence will live on forever.
What a day! To lose these two so very different artists on the same day! I just watched on TV the movie Farrah's Story about her courageous fight against cancer. It reflected all I have seen myself about this illness and was so amazingly moving. She was a plucky lady.
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