R.I.P Michael Jackson; Goodbye to an Icon

    Another legend has been lost today, and some may say that it is an end to a man who suffered deep within to deal with a life of fame and his inability to adjust to it. No one can deny that Michel Jackson had his problems, but at the same time no one can say that he was not one of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century. The mark that he has made on the entertainment industry and the world is indelible. He was praised by literally hundreds of millions, possibly billions and there are few places outside of the deepest and darkest of remote areas that someone had not heard his name or his music. He was a master of pop culture, dance, and music for most of his life and never had a real childhood as most of us know and take for granted.

    As a man who grew up in the 60’s and 70’s I cannot remember a time that I was not aware of the Jackson Five, and of the kid from Gary Indiana that led them in song. The irony is that Michael Jackson is only a few years older than I. While I cannot say that I was ever a true fan, I can say that I admired the man’s ability to entertain. The world has lost an Icon tonight, all the best to his family those that will mourn him most. Goodbye Michael Jackson, your pain is over.

A kid from Gary with a musical family,

stood before the world movin`

smooth and walking on the moon.

His childhood stolen by greed,

and an industry that fails to

shield those in need.

A star struck world watched as the boy grew,

his music never failed to make us groove.

A boy with soul and talent so bold,

when he danced all stopped to behold.

The Bus has left for one last stop,

to the pearly gates where Billy Jean awaits.

His fans will mourn and his siblings will cry,

The Smooth Criminal has left earth this day for his place on high.

At long last his Scream was shrill,

a cry out from the pain.

A soul almost lost,

but will always be known…as the Thriller.

Be on your way little brother,

Heaven can no longer wait.