“Out For Good” Hero of July - Michael Jackson
I had been pondering the question of whom I thought worthy of being named my “Out For Good” Hero for July, and then It happened - Micheal Jackson died. His untimely death affected me in far greater ways than I ever imagined it could. Now, many people might question my calling Micheal a hero, considering the turbulent nature of his later part of his life. But here’s the thing - he was found NOT GUILTY of any wrong-doing and, though he did settle with another child’s family out of court, in my heart I believe he did so in order to spare himself the thing he most dreaded - being placed under public condemnation. If I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Micheal was guilty, I would never consider him a hero, regardless of anything else he may have done, but I honestly think he was innocent. Sure, he made some very poor decisions, both having children sleep in his bed and holding his own baby over the hotel railing, among other things. Still, I believe he acted more like a child himself in these instances and never thought of hurting anyone, especially not the kids he held most dearly.
On the other hand, Micheal Jackson not only was the greatest entertainer of my era; he wrote and performed “important songs” which asked us to Save The World, ask the Man In The Mirror, and look beyond being BLACK Or White. In doing so he also gave more money to charities than any other entertainer in history, and personally toured AIDS ravaged villages in Africa as well as amputee wards in American military hospitals. Micheal Jackson’s inherent love for everyone and everything in the world far outweighed instances of his poor judgment or quirkiness depicted by his ongoing need to change his appearance, a true sign that he found loving others far easier than loving himself.
So I choose to love Micheal Jackson as I always did and, moreover, look upon him as a hero and humanitarian who will be sorely missed, though his legendary music will go on for ever. One thing is for sure- there is far more beautiful music playing now than ever in heaven!
RD
Stacey MacLeod — July 9, 2009 @ 8:18 am
Thank you and BRAVO, for once again being able to see the big picture which I believe is one of your many gifts. He was NEVER convicted of anything and as a parent if I felt my child ever in danger there is NO amount of money that would make me go away.
When I posted that I had entered the drawing to go to his memorial as his music has helped me many times in my life i received many nasty emails !!!!
I also choose to remember him as a humanitarian and giver who loved ALL people and there is nothing this world could use more right now. I think that The music is to be celebrated and remembered but my wish is that we all be brave enough to look at our lives and see that we all have faults and aspire to give back to this world in which we all take so much……give a little more, kindness, patience, understanding , and a helping hand in any way we are able.
Great choice !!!
beth — July 13, 2009 @ 4:54 pm
The greatest musical spirit and passion ever seen in a performer came from this person. A life force from his heart and soul that was even too powerful for his most agile physical body. THE ONLY HUMAN THAT EVER PERFORMED FREESTYLE DRESSAGE. We saw him dance and we did not care if he was young or old, black or white, tenor or bass…A true artist.
Michele — July 15, 2009 @ 9:51 am
Perfectly said.
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