Michael Jackson - His Light Lives On - King of Pop, Legendary Performer, Lover of Humanity

From the moment Michael Jackson stepped into the limelight, we all knew he was something special. Now that he is dead at age 50, everyone is recounting what great talent he possessed, and specifically, his top-notch singing and dancing. He was the proclaimed King of Pop and a legendary performer. However, what people may have forgotten is that he had a great love for humanity and worked to make the world a better place.
Michael Jackson's life was often clouded in controversy and gossip. He was exploited from the time he was a small child and it continued by members of the media and fans throughout his life. Facing many battles, he overcame much.
After losing most of his money on legal battles, it appeared the last several years were taking a toll on him, both physically and emotionally. However, his light never went out. He was planning a comeback. Many people now question why his life was cut so short.
Michael Jackson strived to bring forward his best, by looking within for the answers, as evidenced by his hit song "Man in the Mirror." He also encouraged us to do the same. How many remember that he and Lionel Richie wrote the 1985 song, "We are the World?" He also helped organize 45 popular musicians to sing the song that supported relief in Africa. In addition, many of his songs were spiritually based, promoting a love for others, such as "Black or White" and "Heal the World."
As for me, at times when popular icons die before anyone expects, I am reminded of a poem by Alfred Edward Housman entitled, "To an Athlete Dying Young," the story of an athlete who dies before his or her glory fades. The poem reinforces the idea that it is better to die while one's light is bright, rather than letting it fade over time.
Could it be that Michael's death was a way to preserve the memory of his light before it faded? It is said that something good always comes out of something bad. I have seen proof of this in the aftermath of Michael Jackson's demise. People are now celebrating his life, instead of focusing on his many tribulations. For this reason, it is my observation that Michael turned out to be a true light worker, even in death

Article written by Cindy L. Herb