Michael Jackson: The Man
As the “world” mourns the sudden and unexpected death of Michael Jackson, I guess his death will be one of those “historic markers” that we all have in our life.
In other words, these are major events in our history that are defining moments in our lives. Events such as the death of President John F. Kennedy, the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and now the death of Michael Jackson; these are events that impact us so, that they etch out a special place in our memory banks.
We reference these events, by asking others, “Where were you when you heard that (JFK, Martin, or Michael) died?”
I will be honest with you; I was not going to write about the death of Michael Jackson, because I figured we would get a “full dose” of information from the news media. However; since I received several comments from others asking me if I planned to write a post on my site, I decided to write this one.
The more I thought about it, I felt Michael Jackson’s life is an example of what I am truly trying to challenge us all as men to do, live out our “DASH” (Dreams, Achievement, Success, and Happiness).
Michael’s dream of being an entertainer started as a young child and he achieved phenomenal success while bringing happiness to millions over a forty plus year career. I believe we can agree that he truly had a positive impact on the lives of others, which extended through multiple generations.
Yes, I know there are those who would like to define him and his life’s work by the accusation and trials that were media frenzies. Regardless, if we think the accusation are true or not, should not be the criteria by which Michael or anyone else is judged by society. I would submit that we should look at the collective body of a person’s life work to make a final determination of the impact (positively or negatively) of their life on society.
As I looked at the media coverage of large crowds of people gathered at various places throughout the world, which could be in some kind of way associated with Michael; they came together to support each other because they shared a common bond and love for Michael Jackson.
Obviously; these gatherings provides us a glimpse of what many individuals across various races and regions think of the man and his work. Many lives were impacted by this young child who was born in Gary Indiana, into a large family, from humble beginnings, but went on to become one of the greatest entertainers of history.
But, I couldn’t help but think about the “painful” side of Michael’s life. I saw a man even though he had obtain “superstar” status in a lot of people minds, seem to be living with a “void” he tried to, but could not fill.
It was not a secret that Michael’s relationship with his father was somewhat estranged. I believe he lived his life trying to please his father and to receive from him the affirmation and love every child needs. Unfortunately, I am not sure he was successful in his quest for his father’s acceptance, and because he was not successful, it “stunted” Michael’s emotional and psychological development as a man, resulting in his eccentric life style later in his life.
In spite of his private pain, Michael did what many of us had to do; he tried to break the “cycle” with his own children. Yes, there has been a lot of controversy regarding his children. But, I believe Michael was trying to show his father through his relationship with his own children what he needed from him. He wanted to show his father the love and acceptance a father should willingly give to his child.
Finally, regardless of which perspective or opinion we individually may have about the life of Michael Jackson, I believe history will remember him positively for the love and happiness he provided for many through his music and humanitarian actions.
Rest In Peace, Michael Jackson, thanks for living out your “DASH” in my lifetime. We all will miss you!!
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For the woman in your life, my wife (Sylvia) has a personal development site focused specifically on the needs and concerns of women. The site is called, www.thedashlady.com.
Also, we have a joint site focused on the needs and concerns of couples (i.e. married, engaged, and seriously dating). This site is focused on helping couples to grow together through personal development. The site is called, www.marriagerhythm.com.
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Again, thanks for visiting this site.
Randy
The “DASH” Guy
