Last night I got the opportunity to watch history unfold as the live video of MJ’s memorial streamed through TV and the Internet. The service was moving, the eulogies were touching, and the performances would make me teary-eyed everytime.
Michael’s close friends, pastors and relatives paid tribute to the King of Pop, his life, his legacy and his music.
African-American participation in the modern era would not have been possible if it were not for MJ. NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson said that he was inspired to do his best because Jackson did his best in everything. Co-laker Kobe Bryant revealed that the King didn’t simply lord over the music industry but was, himself, a kind, just man – giving most of his money away to charity.
Michael was, for some, a weird man. But for those of us with normal lives, it would be hard to imagine exactly how he lived his – with his pains, his illness, and even his fame, became too much of a burden. Brother Marlon told audiences about MJ’s quest to be normal; he would sometimes don disguises just to go to a mall and buy CDs – just like any of us would do.
We take those things for granted.
But for MJ, living the life of a superstar meant that he was not afforded these simple joys. Perhaps that prompted him to depression.
With all the hype, the media, the lights and the logistics, the memorial boiled down to 20 seconds of emotion – when daughter Paris referred to the King of Pop as Daddy. “Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine,” she said, trying to keep her tears at bay.
“And I just wanted to say I love him — so much.” Paris ended.
In that moment, all the intrigues, the negative publicity about a misunderstood man went down the drain.
At that moment, MJ was simply a loving father. And that mattered the most.
Michael leaves in his wake, a vision for change. It seems only fitting that his message of healing the World rang to the entire planet as millions watched his Memorial.
Let’s heed his call. Let’s Heal this World - together as one.
Now, Michael Jackson will be doing his greatest act and meet the Greatest Director ever.
The King of Pop will now bow for the last time and bend his knees to the King of Kings.
Godspeed, Michael. Thank you for inspiring me and the rest of the world.
