When someone famous passes, it seems as if the world is torn in two: those that care and those that could care less. And the bigger the celebrity, the bigger the tear. Sadly, this year it's Michael Jackson.MJ was a person who lived two extremes: super stardom and utter humiliation. He was consistently displayed in the public eye ever since he hit the music scene at such a young age. We can say it's because of his messed up childhood and abusive father or this urge to want to stand out amongst such a large family and living a life under the spotlight to be the only life he really ever knew. And it is because of these ups and downs and spirals in-between that MJ really couldn't find a balance.
So we either loved or hated him. But regardless of how we feel, we can't deny the fact that his legacy will live on. He started a trend that could only be duplicated. His music, no matter how old, is timeless. And he reached out to so many that no matter where you are in the world, what language you speak, and whether he even performed in your city...you knew who he was. And you knew how to sing along to at least one of his songs.
Yes, I am a fan. But I don't need to jump on the band wagon to prove it. I don't see a need to rush to his Hollywood Star or any of his former properties to say goodbye. I don't need to wait in line to get a ticket to mourn him somewhere inside a stadium. I know that this is a mark in history, but I don't feel the need to add to the crowd.
I am a fan of his music. I will honor him by playing his many hit songs. I will remember him as being a part of my childhood. Giving me and many others the courage to stand up in front of a crowded room and sing and dance as if no one was watching. It was because of him that I learned to love different styles of music. And for that I thank him.
It is sad that he is gone, but I think for once he will now be at peace.
