Michael Jackson

Many words have already been written since the world found out about the tragic passing of Michael Jackson. Yesterday was simply one of the saddest days in music. Learning that Michael Jackson had suffered a cardiac arrest and was being hospitalized brought my day to a pause, followed by frantic checking of various news outlets for more information. The news of his death was at first met with disbelief and followed by a sense of shock. In some ways it is yet to sink in.

In talking with close friends about his passing, I find the only way to take comfort in anything is by appreciating the gifts of his music and dance moves. For many, it is or was his music that made him so special. This holds true for me as well, but his amazing dance moves were equally important. Seeing his dance moves growing up in the 80s, I couldn't help but want to dance. Although never coming close to emulating his talents, his dance moves and the rhythmic beats of his amazing music simply inspired movement in me.

It was clear from an early age that Michael Jackson was a special and talented individual. With time he grew to become the King of Pop; a star like never before. With his music, dance moves, and music videos he shaped a generation. His musical impact was felt in all parts of society and across generations; his music opened doors for many others to follow. He managed to bridge gaps between cultures and in so doing he brought many people together. Simply put, he broke down barriers. And beyond the impact his music had, he strove to make the world a better place.

It's nice to see how much love this world has for Michael Jackson, especially after all of the ridicule he received in recent years for his eccentric behavior. It is undeniable that his career and life took an unfortunate turn, yet it is equally undeniable that few, if any, have ever faced the pressures he did. Growing up a childhood star as he did, in many ways he was never given the opportunity to really be a child, a kid. From a very early age he was a star and in the limelight; he was the star in a groups of stars. Undoubtedly, these early experiences (or maybe more so the lack of some of the normal childhood experiences) shaped him in ways difficult to understand or explain. Without any semblance of a true childhood, Michael Jackson "grew up" and managed to become the biggest pop star that ever lived (further removing any slim chance of normalcy in his life). But in time, his star would fall almost as far as it had risen. Faced with accusations and rumors of all sorts, Michael Jackson eventually withdrew from public view...and the times he did resurface he was often met with a less than friendly response. In recent memory, his amazing contribution to the entertainment world (and really the world more generally) had been overshadowed by the controversies he became embroiled in.

I wholeheartedly believe that some of his eccentricities were simply a necessary part of him being the amazing, talented musician, entertainer, and performer that he was. Some of course were side effects of his less than normal upbringing. And yes, there were things that simply didn't make sense or felt wrong. At the end of it all, Michael Jackson was an amazing individual who will forever be remembered for the music he left us. It's a gift many of us will continue to cherish.

Thank you, Michael Jackson, for all you gave us. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and fans. My hope and belief is that Michael is now in a place where he is free of the many burdens that followed him in recent years.