MICHAEL JACKSON “The King Of POP”
June 28, 2009 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Entertainment, Society & Culture
MICHAEL JACKSON
“KING OF POP”
Michael Jackson “The King of Pop” has completed his journey on this side of Heaven. He has astonished us all by abruptly and so very surprisingly unexpectedly passing on… But not without much fanfare and noteworthy celebrating. Scores, gathering at the famous Apollo Theater and even in Times Square as well as a myriad of venues all around the globe. The news has been saturated with millions of his fans in a mesmerized chorus, ambivalent and simultaneously grieving and celebrating his life! I was taken by surprised when I first heard the news he was taken to the hospital and was not breathing. Waiting along with my husband and with the rest of the world for an update; there was this haunting foreboding , sensitive feeling that the consequence would be dismal and dire. As I waited I became more and more apprehensive awaiting the outcome.
As I waited I began to think about his children, his life and his family his fans. Who was with him? What really happened? Why aren’t they saying… Finally the Results: A cardiac arrest in his home. His Doctor was with him and now the rumors again abound…
I could only supposedly presume what his family might be feeling now? Although over the last few years too many of my own close relatives have passed on, some abruptly unexpectedly as well. But at least I / we were able to privately mourn. Their distraught moments of grief, alarm and concern communally exposed. Unexplainable shock and unanticipated despair all right in public view! Few if any moments of privacy! “Lights, camera, action!” There is often an ominous price one pays for fame. Your life becomes open to much criticism, scrutiny and much misinterpretation of one’s actions. In a sense you become a recognizable target for all living in a “glass house” of sorts. Michael Jackson has touched the lives of many. He has contributed immensely to the wealth, careers and livelihood of many. There will be an ongoing reveal as to just how many that is? Quincy Jones says” he has lost his little brother.” Remember Michael Jackson’s lyrics and all the stars and participants in the “We are the World” project?
I have grown up parallellely distant with Michael as millions of others have. He no doubt has touched the lives of many. He lit up the television screen! I remember how he was this cute little smiling dancing machine with the biggest little Afro! He could not only sing, but danced regally and glided majestically across the stage as no one his age had before. The incredible thing was that the “Jackson Five” were a family. Michael was the seventh (7) child in his family. Not just any family but a Black family of Color from Gary Indiana of all places?
The lyrics in many of his “Jackson Five” songs were simple and wholesome. You could relate to the words as well as the beat. ABC, I Want You Back, The Love You Save and I’ll Be There … Your parents could also too tolerate the unobtrusive rhythmic pulsating cadence that caused one to “bob” their head and hum right along. Michael’s solo career speedily climbed with a loudening universal crescendo! Michael no doubt has deservedly earned and owned an iconic symbol status!
He has inspired the creativity of thousands! He has been a singing mogul, choreographer, step arranger, writer, producer an all out genius! Many of the moves and dance routines you see NOW by many of the top performers, male and female, young and old as well as this current generation have originated from Michael! There are few ever, in a lifetime who have accomplished the type of unique, magical, effervescent presence that Michael exuded. Michael Jackson was not only a gifted, talented artist, producer and dancer but he also patented a pair of shoes that helped dancers to be able to lean much farther. Let’s not forget his famous “Moonwalk”! No doubt he was if not the best one of the few “All Time Best Entertainer?”
Michael Jackson’s passing should cause great concern to all? How could this happen? How could he be given massive doses of? How could those about him not be held responsible too? The Word of God is so true when it says “life is but a vapor.” One moment you are here and then you are gone… I am sure that a maze of legal complexities are on the horizon? But I believe that we should keep in mind that Michael Jackson was a son, a brother, a man, a father and a believer. He was a person who had a quiet, humble gracefulness that emanated a magnetic universal quality that drew the masses! His world wide recognition forbade him to live any sense of a normal life therefore idiosyncrasies abounded. But let’s not reduce his life to that. I believe we should applaud him for all the good he has done and will continue to do although he has passed on to the other side. His brilliant light shone as he entertained us robustly, robotically, vigorously and effortlessly shared himself with the world!
Here is that statement that was released by the Jackson Family:
The statement, posted to People.com, reads:
“In one of the darkest moments of our lives we find it hard to find the words appropriate to this sudden tragedy we all had to encounter. Our beloved son, brother and father of three children has gone so unexpectedly, in such a tragic way and much too soon. It leaves us, his family, speechless and devastated to a point, where communication with the outside world seems almost impossible at times.
“We miss Michael endlessly, our pain cannot be described in words. But Michael would not want us to give up now. So we want to thank all of his faithful supporters and loyal fans worldwide, you — who Michael loved so much. Please do not despair, because Michael will continue to live on in each and every one of you. Continue to spread his message, because that is what he would want you to do. Carry on, so his legacy will live forever.”
Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, added his own message to the statement that read:
“My grandchildren are deeply moved by all the love and support you have shown for them and their father, Michael Jackson.”
Michael Jackson recorded ten studio albums, he many times over has reached platinum status and His “Thriller” album is the number one all time greatest popular favorite. He contributed immensely to charitable causes and so much more… He currently had sold out status for his upcoming 50 tours abroad in London….
Regardless of what others say or think there are few that have accomplished and did what Michael Jackson has done. I believe that his legacy will eventually outride any bad press he receives. In spite of any of the allegations that have ever been made. One must remember that Michael was acquitted legally. He was found NOT GUILTY! If there was any inkling of validity one must also penalize the massive support regime of employees that always surrounded him. It is clear that he was accompanied by an entourage. So if in doubt, please allow him some dignity for all he accomplished in this side of HEAVEN! His life should be remembered for the legacy it was and will continue to be as “THE KING OF POP”! The timing of it all is so intriguing especially when the world has been impacted so, by our country’s recession. Momentarily Michael Jackson’s passing has dominated the current world events and ushered in a “Time of Remembrances!” Therefore I say REST in PEACE My sentiments and condolence is with his children, Prince, Paris and Blanket and the Jackson Family!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DeBorrah K. Ogans is a Marriage Educator, licensed Christian Counselor, life coach and ordained minister. She is certified through the Sarasota Academy of Christian Counseling in Creation Therapy and holds a Master’s Degree in Biblical Clinical Counseling. She is the author of a pre-marital guide “How Do I Love Thee: Things You Need To Know Before You Say I Do,” and just released her second book “Holy Matrimony: Now That You’re Married”.
DeBorrah has written extensively and has a plethora of columns and commentaries on life subjects that are widely published. DeBorrah along with her husband is co-founder of Alpha 7 Ministries, a Counseling and Music Ministry that reaches “Beyond The Walls”. There are times when we all need some encouragement in our walk with the Lord. The Counseling Ministry was designed to encourage, motivate and uplift you in your journey. The Music Ministry produces and records music for every musical taste: Contemporary Christian, Gospel, Praise & Worship, Instrumental Gospel/Jazz, and Easy Listening.