I grew up listening to the Jackson 5. Songs like ABC, Never Can Say Goodbye, I Want you Back, etc. are forever etched in my mind. Honestly, it’s still hard for me to believe that Michael Jackson is gone. It’s hard to believe that we’ll never see him moonwalk across a stage again or hear him say “hee-hee”.
The memorial tribute was very well done. All of the participants shared heart-felt sentiments about Jackson and how he touched their lives. I watched because regardless of what Jackson did or didn’t do off the stage, his music is timeless. He knew how to create songs that would make you want to dance or sing even if you didn’t know all the words.
So, as I was watching the tribute and listening to Brooke Shields, I began to get a little emotional. Honestly, I was surprised at my reaction. Shields really humanized Jackson and I could empathize with her feeling of loss. Because to her Michael was her friend and they shared some wonderful times together. I especially liked the part when she referred to him as The Little Prince even though the world labels him the King of Pop. She connected with Michael’s child-like nature because she too was forced into a life of “adultdom” while she was still a child.
Okay, so Shields is talking and I feel this shift in my emotions. I’m feeling a bit sad. Then, Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson gets up on stage and sings Michael’s favorite song “Smile”. That did it. The flood gates opened and the tears started flowing. I’m literally sobbing at this point because I can’t imagine how much inner strength it took for Jermaine to sing at his brother’s funeral. And sing beautifully I might add!
That was truly a powerful moment. By the time I got to work, the whole family was on stage and Marlon was speaking. Then Paris took the mic and said how much she loved her dad and I was a Kleenex mess again! That little girl said Michael was a great father to her and that’s a memory she will always have.
You’re probably saying I am just a soft, mushy, emotional woman. Well….you’re right I am. I was moved by his daughter’s words. Let’s face it, those kids lost their dad. That’s tough to deal with at any age, but when you’re a kid it’s extra hard.
Michael Jackson wasn’t perfect. I know this. But his musical legacy is something that millions will treasure for a lifetime. And through all his faults, mishaps, and quirkiness I believe in his heart and mind he really thought he could heal the world through his music.
My prayer now is that his family heals and is able to move on. Hopefully they will be able to continue some of Michael’s humanitarian work so that this world can really be a better place for you and me.
Send me your thoughts!
Take Care,
Danita
