Michael Jackson: Know That You Will Be So Missed

Like most of the world, I was floored when I heard the news of Michael Jackson's death. I remember exactly where I was and I'll never forget the immediate feeling of loss and shock that I felt.

I grew up on MJ's music. I envied the dancing ability he possessed. I watched him tip his hat and stand on his toes with the utmost loving affection. The few strands of hair that always fell into his face, the tight white t-shirt, and the crotch grabbing mesmerized me. I thought he was one of the sexiest men on the planet...in his own way.

I seriously can't believe we lost him. This was a death that shouldn't have surfaced for at least thirty to forty more years. Michael should still be here touring, raising his children, dancing, singing, and caring for others. The amount of compassion he had for others astounds me and leaves me literally breathless. I wish I could look at the world that way.

MJ gave his all to help countless children and causes around the world. But yet, the media chose to focus not on the good he did but on the weirdness they thought he was capable of. Al Sharpton said it best at Michael's memorial: "I want Michael's kids to know...ain't nothing strange about your daddy, what was strange is what he had to go through."

The media helped contribute to Michael's untimely death. The false molestation accusations that he had to endure took a toll on him, as they would with any one of us. Those accusations destroyed his spirit and you could see it in his face every time he walked into court. He was mentally, emotionally, and physically drained. And now that he's gone, I feel more horrible than ever. I can't even imagine what it's like to live in a world where all you want to do is be yourself, be "normal", perform for your fans, and help those less fortunate...and the media and haters keep picking at you. They pick until blood drips...until your spirit is broken...they pick at you until you are gutted.

What Michael Jackson wanted was simply to be himself, to be a good father to his children, and to love his fans. It's too bad that it took his death for most of the world to realize that.

Even though I've never met MJ and didn't know him personally, I feel with every fiber of my being that I lost a family member. I weeped during his memorial service. I went through almost an entire box of tissues. Part of me feels sad and empty at his loss while other parts of me smile because I'm hoping he is finally at peace.

Thank you MJ for the dance moves, the beautiful songs, your compassion for the human race, and for your unconditional love that you had for your children, your family, and your fans. Know that you are respected for your talents and that you will be SO missed.