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How to Remember and Respect Michael Jackson as the "King of Pop"


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Michael Jackson has been a famous celebrity icon in our lives for nearly 40 years. He went from being a musical child prodigy adored by all, to the "King of Pop" who still holds the most records ever sold in history for this "Thriller" album.

Being the "King of Pop" has brought him much fame complete with music and contributions that made him a positive icon for cultural peace and environmental preservation. However, his fame has also brought on many fingers pointed towards him for everything from his bizarre collections and crotch grabbing to the most extreme of allegations for his interactions with children. These allegations took Michael Jackson from being one of the most loved celebrity icons, to an icon looked at with mixed perceptions; some who still adore him for who he was through his lyrics, musical performances & humanitarian efforts, and others who hated him as a result of the allegations.

Whatever your perspective of Michael Jackson may have been, the one thing that is undeniable is that he has impacted so many lives in some way or another. However you may have felt about him in his final years of life, here are some ways to come to terms with his life, his death and his complex legacy with respect to his career as well as to those who genuinely mourn the loss of "The King of Pop".


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Step 1
RESPECT FOR MOURNERS
First and foremost, please be respectful for those who are genuinely mourning the loss of Michael Jackson. It has been so painful to see innocent people who state something as simple as "R.I.P. Michael Jackson" getting hit back with venomous hatred by those who only see Michael for the allegations against him.

Remember that he still has family, children (Michael, Paris & Prince) and close friends, as well as fans that are grieving over this loss, and all the venom and hatred is only serving to make such a difficult time for them, even more difficult. Whatever may have been can not be changed nor will it change anything by being so very rude to others. The mourners are not guilty of anything other than being fans of, or personally connected to the musical artist that Michael was. This is not a time for personal battles. Be respectful of these people and allow them have to their mourning and remembrances in peace.

Step 2
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
Hold a candlelight vigil for Michael Jackson. Whatever you think of him, good or bad, there is an end to the life he led. Letting the candle glow and then fade out on its own may be a good representation of Michael Jackson's life... glowing brightly and strong for so long and then slowly, yet abruptly fading out, but definitely "Gone Too Soon," (a beautiful song by Michael that would be a perfect touch to your vigil).

Step 3
DANCE LIKE MICHAEL JACKSON
Michael Jackson was many things over the past forty years of his singing and performing career. One of the things Michael Jackson was great at was the dance moves that always stepped choreography up a notch. Many people are doing the "Moonwalk" in respect of Michael Jackson. But let's not forget one of his greatest theatrical dance routines done in the music video for "Thriller."

Break out your Michael Jackson videos, or find the video for "Thriller" online and do the zombie dance in "Thriller." If you have not seen a Michael Jackson live performance, seek one out to watch. His live performances are incredible. He was a true performer in every way possible and deserves the up-most respect in the performing industry.

Step 4
PLAY BACK THE MUSIC
Recall who Michael Jackson was through his music. So much of Michael's thoughts on so many issues are shared through the lyrics in his songs. Many of these songs have long been forgotten, or maybe were not as well known after his works in the 1980's. From his celebrity filled cast who sang "We Are the World," to "Heal the World," which also became the name of the humanitarian organization that he founded, to "Earth Song". So many of his songs were about peace, unity, preserving the Earth and all that exist upon it, and most of all... helping the children of the world. He was also very generous with his contributions to charities all around the world making him a man of action, rather than just words.

Make a playlist of his songs, break out any albums you may have, or simply seek out and listen to his songs that are available to listen to online. Like his dance moves, his music is something that has always been taken to the next level. Even though he was considered the "King of Pop," many of his songs crossed over the pop bounds with rock guitar solos performed by great guitarists like Eddie VanHalen and Slash.

Step 5
DEALING WITH A COMPLEX LEGACY
The last ten years of Michael Jackson's life has always really made me think of how complex leaving a legacy can be, and his has turned out to be a mixed legacy indeed. That alone is difficult for many of us to deal with, as it may pull us in many directions with our thoughts about him.

Some who have adored Michael Jackson for his music, his performances, his soft spoken and kind manners, and his humanitarian efforts have difficulty seeing him only for the allegations, and hearing from those who only see him for those allegations can be painful, especially during their grieving period. Dealing with this may pull our grief in different directions.

How you feel about the life and death of Michael Jackson is something that has to be dealt with on your individual level. Do not allow opposing views to deter you from your own feelings. In fact, when confronted with such opposing views, be "Bad," ask them "Why you Wanna Trip on Me?," "Leave me Alone," then tell them to "Beat it" and to take their opinions elsewhere, starting with "The Man in the Mirror." Because their attitude to be rude towards you and to talk down your perception of this great musical icon's "HIStory" is simply not welcome with you!

Peace and Love to you all!
:heart: :heart:

Source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5131263_remember-michael-jackson-king-pop.html
 
Michael Jackson - Music and Me



A sweet song and pictures of a young Michael.
Enjoy!



[YouTube]Qo7s4rwLnCI[/YouTube]
 
[size=+2]HIStory Tour[/size]
General information


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The HIStory World Tour was the third and final world concert tour by Michael Jackson as a solo artist, covering Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Hawaii from September 7, 1996 to October 15, 1997. The tour, which grossed a total of $163.5 million, included a total of 82 concerts attended by 4,500,000 fans.

Prior to the tour, Michael performed a free concert at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei on 16 July, 1996, attended by 60,000 throughout the park. The concert was in celebration of the 50th birthday of Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei and was attended by the Brunei royal family, though the Sultan himself did not attend.

Much of the concert resembled Michael's Dangerous World Tour, including his outfit and the set list, keeping the details of the upcoming HIStory Tour a close secret. The concert also marked the debut live performance of "You Are Not Alone" and "Earth Song" as well as the last performances of "Jam", "Human Nature", "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" and "She's out of My Life" at a Michael concert. This concert also marked the last performance of "Billie Jean" and one of the last performances of "Beat It" sung fully live. Although "Heal the World" was present on the setlists of both the Dangerous and HIStory Tours, it was not on the setlist of the Royal Concert.



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Unlike Michael's past two solo world tours, the HIStory Tour would not be sponsored by Pepsi-Cola.

The birth of Kingdom International, a joint venture between Michael and HRH Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, the nephew of the Fahd bin Abdul Aziz, the King of Saudi Arabia from 1982 to 2005, was announced at a press conference held at the Palais des Congres in Paris, France on 19 March, 1995. Kingdom International allowed opportunities to be created and developed in the entertainment industry. In this conference Michael said "Kingdom International is a dream come true." It was then announced that Michael would embark on his third solo world tour.

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Performers

Lead performer, Vocals, Dance, Choreographer
Michael Jackson

Dancers First Leg
LaVelle Smith, Shawnette Heard, Damon Navandi, Courtney Miller, Anthony Talauega, Richmond Talauega, Loru Werner, Jason Yribar

Dancers Second Leg
LaVelle Smith, Cristan Judd, Stacy Walker, Anthony Talauega, Richmond Talauega, Faune Chambers

Band members
Music Director: Brad Buxer (1st. leg) (Greg Philinganes) (2nd. leg)
Assistant Musical Director: Kevin Dorsey
Keyboards: Brad Buxer, Isaiah Sanders (1st. Leg was replaced by Greg Philinganes on 2nd. leg)
Drums: Jonathan Moffett (1st. Leg) Ricky Lawson (2nd. Leg)
Lead Guitar: Jennifer Batten
Rhythm Guitar: David Williams
Bass: Freddie Washington (1st.leg) Don Boyette (2nd. leg)
Vocal Director: Kevin Dorsey
Vocals: Kevin Dorsey, Darryl Phinnessee, Dorian Holley, Fred White (second leg), Marva Hicks (only in first leg and early second leg)


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Touring Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and United States

Michael started the tour off with a concert at Letna Park in Prague with a 125,000 strong attendance, one of Michael's largest single attended concerts in his career. On January 3 and 4th 1997 Michael only performed two concerts in America. He did not perform in the USA mainland, but rather in Honolulu, Hawaii at the Aloha Stadium to a crowd of 35,000 each.

The second leg started off on May 31, 1997 at the Weserstadion in Bremen, Germany. Set list changes included the addition of Blood on the Dance Floor and later on the removal of the Off the Wall Medley and The Way You Make Me Feel. It was only during the first concert in Bremen that Michael donned a red jacket for Blood on The Dance Floor, which was later replaced with a blue uniform. Blood on the Dance Floor was taken off the set list after the concert in Oslo, Norway on August 19, 1997. On August 29, 1997 Michael performed at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, Denmark on his 39th birthday with 50,000 fans. He was presented with a surprise birthday cake, marching band, and fireworks on stage before the Jackson 5 Medley. A concert was supposed to take place on August 7 in Ljubljana, Slovenia, but was cancelled due to poor ticket sales, the only concert that was cancelled during the tour. The concert at Hippodrome Wellington of Oostende, Belgium was supposed to be held on August 31, 1997, but was postponed to September 3 following Diana's death. During the September 3 concert audiences were required to be put into "cages." Starting with this concert, several of the final concerts had begun with the instrumental of Charlie Chaplin's Smile being played.

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Setlist

"Gates of Kiev" Computer Animation Introduction
"Scream" / "They Don't Care About Us" / "In the Closet"
"Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"
"Stranger in Moscow"
"Smooth Criminal"
"The Wind" Video Interlude
"You Are Not Alone"
"The Way You Make Me Feel" (September 7, 1996 to June 15, 1997)
Jackson 5 Medley: "I Want You Back" / "The Love You Save"
Jackson 5 Medley: "I'll Be There"
Off the Wall Medley: "Rock with You" / "Off the Wall" / "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" (Only on certain concerts, last performed on June 10, 1997)
"Remember the Time" Video Montage Interlude
"Billie Jean"
"Thriller"
"Beat It"
"Come Together" / "D.S." (Only on certain concerts from September 7, 1996 to November 11, 1996)
"Blood on the Dance Floor" (May 31, 1997 to August 19, 1997)
Black or White "Panther" Video Interlude
"Dangerous"
"Black or White"
"Earth Song"
"We Are the World" Video Interlude
"Heal the World"
"HIStory"

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Televised concerts

All concerts were professionally filmed by Nocturne Productions, Inc. which filmed all of Michael's tours and private affairs. Just one concert, from Seoul on October 11, 1996 was commercially released on VHS in Korea. The DVD release of the Munich concerts held on July 4 and 6, 1997 planned for Christmas but was subsequently cancelled as Michael was not satisfied with the performance.

A number of full, or near-full concerts were broadcast on television. Small parts of other certain concerts (typically the opening medley of Scream/They Don't Care About Us/In the Closet) were also shown on news reports around the world.

Full or near-full concerts broadcasted or commercially released:


14/09/1996 Lia Manoliu Stadium - Bucharest, Romania
11/10/1996 Olympic Stadium - Seoul, South Korea
commercially released on VHS in Korea
27/10/1996 Merdeka Stadium - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
televised by ntv7
09/11/1996 Ericsson Stadium - Auckland, New Zealand
16/11/1996 Sydney Cricket Ground - Sydney, Australia
only a few songs were broadcast on Nine Network
08/12/1996 Asiaworld City - Parañaque City Philippines
televised by ABC-5 and GMA Network
31/12/1996 Jerudong Park Amphitheatre - Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
illegal high-quality VHS and poor VCD copies obtained by collectors
04 & 06/07/1997 Olympic Stadium - Munich Germany
televised extensively in many different countries
14/08/1997 Parken Stadium - Copenhagen, Denmark
televised by TV1000 and Channel 3
16/08/1997 Ullevi Stadium - Gothenburg, Sweden
televised by TV1000 and Channel 3
24/08/1997 Olympic Stadium - Helsinki, Finland
televised by TV1000


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Tour schedule

First Leg

Date, City, Venue, Attendance
September 7, 1996 Prague, Czech Republic Letna Park 127,000
September 10, 1996 Budapest, Hungary Népstadion 60,000
September 14, 1996 Bucharest, Romania Lia Manoliu Stadium 70,000
September 17, 1996 Moscow, Russia Dynamo Stadium 50,000
September 20, 1996 Warsaw, Poland Bemowo Airport 120,000
September 24, 1996 Zaragoza, Spain La Romareda Stadium 45,000
September 28, 1996 Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam ArenA 50,000
September 30, 1996 Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam ArenA 50,000
October 2, 1996 Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam ArenA 50,000
October 7, 1996 Tunis, Tunisia El Menzah Stadium 90,000
October 11, 1996 Seoul, South Korea Olympic Stadium 50,000
October 13, 1996 Seoul, South Korea Olympic Stadium 50,000
October 18, 1996 Taipei, Taiwan Chungshan Soccer Stadium 40,000
October 20, 1996 Kaohsiung, Taiwan Tsoying Naval Airfield 30,000
October 22, 1996 Taipei, Taiwan Chungshan Soccer Stadium 40,000
October 25, 1996 Singapore National Stadium 35,000
October 27, 1996 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Merdeka Stadium 40,000
October 29, 1996 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Merdeka Stadium 40,000
November 1, 1996 Mumbai, India Andheri Sports Complex 60,000
November 5, 1996 Bangkok, Thailand IMPACT Muang Thong Thani 40,000
November 9, 1996 Auckland, New Zealand Ericsson Stadium 43,000
November 11, 1996 Auckland, New Zealand Ericsson Stadium 43,000
November 14, 1996 Sydney, Australia Sydney Cricket Ground 40,000
November 16, 1996 Sydney, Australia Sydney Cricket Ground 40,000
November 19, 1996 Brisbane, Australia ANZ Stadium 40,000
November 22, 1996 Melbourne, Australia Melbourne Cricket Ground 65,000
November 24, 1996 Melbourne, Australia Melbourne Cricket Ground 65,000
November 26, 1996 Adelaide, Australia Adelaide Oval 30,000
November 30, 1996 Perth, Australia Burswood Dome 20,000
December 2, 1996 Perth, Australia Burswood Dome 20,000
December 4, 1996 Perth, Australia Burswood Dome 20,000
December 8, 1996 Paranaque, Metro Manila Asia World City 55,000
December 10, 1996 Paranaque, Metro Manila Asia World City 90,000
December 12, 1996 Tokyo, Japan Tokyo Dome 45,000
December 15, 1996 Tokyo, Japan Tokyo Dome 45,000
December 17, 1996 Tokyo, Japan Tokyo Dome 45,000
December 20, 1996 Tokyo, Japan Tokyo Dome 45,000
December 26, 1996 Fukuoka, Japan Fukuoka Dome 40,000
December 28, 1996 Fukuoka, Japan Fukuoka Dome 40,000
December 31, 1996 Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Jerudong Park Amphitheatre 60,000
January 3, 1997 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Aloha Stadium 35,000
January 4, 1997 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Aloha Stadium 35,000

Second Leg

Date, City, Venue, Attendance
May 31, 1997 Bremen, Germany Weserstadion 35,000
June 3, 1997 Cologne, Germany Müngersdorfer Stadion 60,000
June 6, 1997 Bremen, Germany Weserstadion 35,000
June 8, 1997 Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam ArenA 50,000
June 10, 1997 Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam ArenA 50,000
June 13, 1997 Kiel, Germany Nordmarksportfield 55,000
June 15, 1997 Gelsenkirchen, Germany Parkstadion 50,000
June 18, 1997 Milan, Italy San Siro 45,000
June 20, 1997 Lausanne, Switzerland La Pontaise Olympic Stadium 35,000
June 22, 1997 Bettembourg, Luxembourg Krakelshaff 45,000
June 25, 1997 Lyon, France Stade de Gerland 25,000
June 27, 1997 Paris, France Parc des Princes 50,000
June 29, 1997 Paris, France Parc des Princes 45,000
July 2, 1997 Vienna, Austria Ernst Happel Stadium 50,000
July 4, 1997 Munich, Germany Olympic Stadium 70,000
July 6, 1997 Munich, Germany Olympic Stadium 70,000
July 9, 1997 Sheffield, United Kingdom Don Valley Stadium 45,000
July 12, 1997 London, United Kingdom Wembley Stadium 72,000
July 15, 1997 London, United Kingdom Wembley Stadium 72,000
July 17, 1997 London, United Kingdom Wembley Stadium 72,000
July 19, 1997 Dublin, Ireland Royal Dublin Society 40,000
July 25, 1997 Basel, Switzerland St. Jakob Park 55,000
July 27, 1997 Nice, France Stade Charles-Ehrmann 35,000
August 1, 1997 Berlin, Germany Olympic Stadium 88,000
August 3, 1997 Leipzig, Germany Festwiese 60,000
August 10, 1997 Hockenheim, Germany Hockenheimring 85,000
August 14, 1997 Copenhagen, Denmark Parken Stadium 45,000
August 16, 1997 Gothenburg, Sweden Ullevi 50,000
August 19, 1997 Oslo, Norway Valle Hovin 34,000
August 22, 1997 Tallinn, Estonia Song Festival Grounds 75,000
August 24, 1997 Helsinki, Finland Olympic Stadium 50,000
August 26, 1997 Helsinki, Finland Olympic Stadium 50,000
August 29, 1997 Copenhagen, Denmark Parken Stadium 45,000
September 3, 1997 Ostend, Belgium Hippodrome Wellington 55,000
September 6, 1997 Valladolid, Spain José Zorrilla Stadium 45,000
October 4, 1997 Cape Town, South Africa Greenpoint Stadium 35,000
October 6, 1997 Cape Town, South Africa Greenpoint Stadium 35,000
October 10, 1997 Johannesburg, South Africa Johannesburg Stadium 57,000
October 12, 1997 Johannesburg, South Africa Johannesburg Stadium 57,000
October 15, 1997 Durban, South Africa Kings Park Stadium 50,000


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Credits

Executive Director: MJJ Productions
Artistic Director: Michael Jackson
Assistant Director: Peggy Holmes
Choreographed by: Michael Jackson & LaVelle Smith
Staged & Designed by: Kenny Ortega
Set Designed by: Michael Cotton & John McGraw
Lightning Designer: Peter Morse
Director of Security: Bill Bray
Costumes Designed by: Dennis Tompkins & Michael Bush
Hair & Make-up: Karen Faye
Stylist: Tommy Simms
Artist Manager: Tarak Ben Amar
Personal Management: Gallin Morey Associates


Source: http://www.legendarymichaeljackson.nl/sub/concerts/history.htm
 
Michael Jackson - Off the Wall Medley - HIStory Tour





Michael Jackson - HIStory Tour Warsaw '96 Arrival





Michael Jackson - Way Cute Onstage Moments


 
Michael Jackson and Diana Ross shared a very special friendship that spanned over 40 years. Enjoy these clips of them together:

1969:


1971:


1981:


1981:


1981:


1996:
 
awww Michael & Diana Ross..you can see how much he loves her. :wub:
The 4th video is just too cute!!!! :D 'oh you are embarrassing me!' :lol:
 
One in Love: Michael and His Fans
- (c) 2010 by BeGodsGlow / www.majorloveprayer.org


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Something that has always puzzled the media and others, but which fans completely understand, is just why those of us who love Michael Jackson have remained steadfastly loyal to him throughout it all, over all the years of ups and downs, and even now we will defend his legacy through thick and thin. The short answer is just one word: LOVE. The long answer would probably fill the Library of Congress a few times over. Of course, love doesn't require an explanation to anyone, but for the sake of celebrating it and hopefully awakening others to it, I'd like to give the world a tiny slice of my insight into the beautiful relationship between Michael and his fans.

First, the word "fan" (coming from "fanatic", for you non-English speakers) never seemed like the right word to me. If you really like a sports team, a television series or the newest trend, you say you're a big fan of it. The word often carries with it a sense of the frivolous, sort of a roll-your-eyes patronization. Dictionary.com defines a fan as "an enthusiastic devotee, follower, or admirer". Enthusiastic is definitely a word I'd use to describe MJ fans! But if you ask us how we truly feel about Michael we'll tell you immediately that it goes much, much deeper than that. We can explain to you that we're not celebrity-chasing simpletons bedazzled by rhinestone socks ("Oooo, sparkly man!") or swept up in a momentary hysteria of paparazzi and the crush of the crowd. And we aren't just dedicated to Michael for his music, his moves, his art or performance. (Although we'll certainly point those things out. He's a groundbreaker, a trendsetter, a unique, beautiful one-of-a-kind, record-holding phenomenon, channeling cosmic creative energy through stunning talent, perfected through a lifetime of hard work and discipline. Michael is amazing. And when you experience something amazing you want to share the joy, hence our occasional near-proselytizing ;)


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Behind all of this awe and excitement, though, those of us who love him found someone even more wonderful ... someone everyone could have found if only they'd looked a tad harder to see through the tabloid headlines and the "shocking, startling, disturbing!" plugs for 'news' segments. If you're still believing that garbage, I can only implore you to read between the lines and seek out facts, not sensationalism shamelessly concocted for profit. The pen may be mightier than the sword, but LOVE trumps them both and Michael's millions of fans are hard proof of this.

The person, the amazing human being behind the talent, was a caring man, a humanitarian whose heart bled for the children of the world. He was a man who, despite being repeatedly attacked, belittled and subverted, was able to retain a childlike innocence and kindness about him that most adults aren't even clever enough to envy. Even after suffering through the unwarranted 2005 trial and the lead-up to it, with month after agonizing month under threat of what would amount to death if disbelieved, of being accused of hurting those he cherished most (imagine that pain, if you dare), he was still able four years later to speak of LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, to continue the mission of healing the world and spreading kindness with "L-O-V-E".




Did you know that while on concert tours, even when he was already donating all his profits directly to charity (see Victory Tour and Dangerous Tour for examples of this unparalleled generosity), he visited orphanages and children's hospitals everywhere he went? Most of these visits went unnoticed by media outlets and he wasn't asking for publicity. Kenny Ortega told the following story (video on left): "I was with Michael in Eastern Europe and we got off a plane and he said, 'Do you want to go the hotel or come to the orphanage with me?'" Kenny said they both went directly to the orphanage from the airport. Once they arrived they found the conditions were quite grim and he observed Michael whispering to a couple of people. Later Kenny learned what Michael had whispered - "This orphanage will be turned around. There will be new beds in here, there will be clean sheets in here, there will be more people in here taking care of these children by tomorrow or I'm not going to go on stage." The situation was turned around in 24 hours. This was how Michael lived and what he stood for. And he visited places like this nearly everywhere he went. How many of us would truly take the time and make the effort to do the same? I mean for real, not because it was just pointed out to you.








Neverland is another case in point. Time and again we have seen programs showcasing the "eccentricity" or "extravagance" of the place, with its Disney-like themes, sculptures and artwork, movie theater, train and amusement park. Now question how often we are reminded about the constant stream of sick kids, underprivileged children and those who were near to their last breath who were entertained and given moments (sometimes stretching into months) of joyous sanctuary at Neverland. Fans were sometimes welcomed onto the grounds to ride the rides and have some ice cream as well! And these things happened whether or not Michael was there. Neverland wasn't only for his own amusement and it wasn't just his attempt to make up for a smidgen of his missed childhood - it was also a gift to the inner child of the world. It was a place for healing and delight, created by a genius of innocence. Thank you so much, Michael. You're Peter Pan in our hearts too.

And now, back to those fans, of which I have been one for over 26 years. Michael's love was not reserved only for the lucky few who were closest to him, but was freely given to the huge crowds who attended his concerts and who gathered in loving frenzy wherever he appeared. (For better at times and for worse at others, one can't very well be the King of Pop without a whole kingdom of followers, right?) What may seem from the outside like a one-way fantasy affair, the relationship between Michael and his fans was anything but. Despite the stresses and pressures of fame, Michael dealt with those who loved him with a calm grace that can only be described as angelic. He would be present in the moment with us, would hug, blow kisses, he would reach out his hand... at least as much as he could, given safety concerns. He frequently expressed admiration for posters and artwork made for him and would thankfully accept these and other gifts from fans. He was patient with autograph seekers and gracious with the hysterical and crying (you know who you are ;) who only wanted that one sublime moment of contact, that one blessed chance to tell him "I love you" in person, and be heard. And isn't that what love wants most... to be expressed, to be given? And hopefully welcomed? Michael must have understood this, for he gave it, accepted it and validated it. "It's all for love."

And after the television crews went home and the crowds thinned, another side of this partnership could be experienced. Groups of admirers would camp outside hotels, waiting for any glimpse of Michael and for one more chance to declare their love. He frequently rewarded them with waves and smiles from his hotel window or balcony. When it was cold he would send down blankets via security personnel. When they'd been waiting outside for hours, singing him songs or cheering him on, he would order a big stack of pizzas just for them. If they stubbornly stayed throughout the night he was known to send down pillows. He would play what fans call "window games" with them, like playful sessions of peek-a-boo behind the curtains in response to their calls. When they held up elaborate signs and posters they'd made for Michael, he would send someone down to pick the items up. If his room was close enough to the ground floor, he'd even been known to talk with the remaining fans on occasion late at night. Sometimes his personal videographer would film messages for him from people in the crowd. And a great many fans over the years were invited into the hotel to meet with Michael personally.

When fans would hang out in front of Neverland's gates it wasn't so unusual to be given food, drinks, treats and sometimes even a welcome to come in for some hours to enjoy the rides and theater. In 1999 Michael personally met and spoke with an entire group of very lucky fans for a whole hour outside a friend's home in London. He also personally attended parties and events organized by fans, such as his 45th Birthday Party and the Killer Thriller Party. And he always showed great concern in potentially dangerous situations, always watching out for everyone, not wanting anyone to fall and get hurt or be injured by vehicles. There are so many stories and videos demonstrating these moments. One I'd like to share is found in the book "It's All About LOVE". In 2002, a woman named Marjorie, who was receiving chemotherapy treatments at the time, was waiting in Pasadena for the American Bandstand 50th Anniversary taping. The gathering of fans was fortunate to be very close to Michael for some moments. He accepted the artwork Marjorie had made for him and then, to her surprise he reached out and pulled her into a tight hug and whispered, "You should have stayed home. You look very sick." This is but one example of the caring gestures so many received. How many celebrities would notice, and care and hold her in their arms without even receiving any word about her condition? But then he had seen enough sick and dying children in his life to know what someone in the midst of chemo looks like. And he cared.

One more not widely known show of affection from Michael to his fans was the written word. Besides the many personal notes and autographs that exist out there in the world, there are many that were simply written to us, his fans at large. He would often write little love letters on papers, on pillows or whatever was around at the time. Sometimes given away by security, sometimes dropped from hotel windows or handed out of car doors, these tokens of love are sweetly meaningful. Some of them have been compiled in the video to the left (Letters of Love). And Michael always did this. He did this many years ago, all the way up through 2009. Some of them show a vulnerable side ("Please love me always") or contain a plea for us to help him heal the world ("Remember to love the children", "Always help the children. Love them."), while in others he promises to do his best for us and expresses things such as "Thanks for all your loyalty and support" and "You make me so happy, I can feel your energy through the walls". Mostly, though, they were all about LOVE: "I love you", "I will always adore you all", "I truly miss you all and love you from the bottom of my heart", "I love you so much", "Just know that I truly love and appreciate all of you", "You are my life always", "I am recording tonight, for all of you. You are my true inspiration forever", "I truly love you all forever, I promise."






The things fans can take to heart here are: 1) He really meant it, and 2) He wrote these things to ALL of us in the larger sense, you and I as well. Although we may not have been there at the hotel window that night, we could have been. You could have caught that pillow. I could have caught that note. Perhaps you hadn't discovered Michael yet. Perhaps some of you hadn't even been born yet when a few of these things were written. It doesn't matter. As the message from Michael declared on michaeljacksonlive.com for the 'This Is It' announcement: "It is now I see and feel that calling once again to be part of a music that will not just connect, but make all feel ONE, one in joy, one in pain, one in love, one in service and in consciousness." This is echoed in the film when he's again heard saying, "We're all ONE".

♥ ONE IN LOVE ♥
So now we are back to the original question of why Michael Jackson fans stuck by his side through it all, why we seem so crazily devout to those on the outside who can't catch the vibe. I'm sorry for those who can't, really. To truly understand, I suspect you simply must catch that wave. But rest assured, there really is thought behind our fanhood. For some of us, the many years since falling for Michael have given us enough time for a great deal of thought, in fact. To be rational, we intensely enjoy with the utmost zeal what he shared with the world, his talent, the joy we get watching him, listening to him, and we respect the discipline and time it took to become that great. But it's so much more than that. We also supremely appreciate that someone this amazing, the biggest superstar in the world with the biggest selling album in history, could still be such a loving and kind person, someone who cared for the sick and needy and the Earth and actually tried to do something about it again and again and again. And he didn't stop there. He wanted us ALL to heal the world. That must be a quality in the heart, in the soul. You can't fake that, at least not for 50 years. But it's even more than that, isn't it? We all basked in the blissfulness of joy and the certain thrill of excitement together with Michael, smiling and innocently flirting through the windows of our souls. We have missed him while he missed us. We have laughed with him while he laughed with us. We have felt that burst of transcendent emotion that blazes through us and crescendos in a divine moment of oneness ... at a concert, who would have figured? We have prayed for Michael and supported him through his struggles, and whether known or not, he was there for us through his music and inspiration when we needed him most. And his continual courage in the face of opposition cannot go unrecognized! For Michael we have cried our happiest tears... and our most devastating. In the end I don't think any of us could explain in a way that wouldn't involve a knowing in the deepest part of who we are, which is something we fans can share at our core. And at that core is love. We just love Michael. Period. As a human being and in spirit. So yes, it's all for love. L.O.V.E. And as I said in the beginning, that doesn't require an explanation.

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"(c) 2010 www.majorloveprayer.org - http://www.majorloveprayer.org/2010/05/one-in-love-michael-and-his-fans.html"
 
Michael Jackson - In the Arms of an Angel

Inner beauty shines through his eyes, pours out of his soul, ready to share his gifts with the world. Material gifts for those in need, fun and excitement for those who did not get to experience that very much if at all, and most importantly the gifts of love, joy and compassion as you can clearly see in this video. Enjoy!

:angel:



 
Heaven is Here - Michael Jackson



Within the video you can read Michael's poem ''Heaven is Here" taken from the book 'Dancing the Dream'.



 
Poem : The Day is Done - by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I came across the following poem in my book "A Treasury of the World's Best Loved Poems" and it made me think of Michael. Therefore I would like to share it with you here.

THE DAY is done, and the darkness
Falls from the wings of Night,
As a feather is wafted downward
From an eagle in his flight.

I see the lights of the village
Gleam through the rain and the mist,
And a feeling of sadness comes o'er me
That my soul cannot resist:

A feeling of sadness and longing,
That is not akin to pain,
And resembles sorrow only
As the mist resembles the rain.

Come, read to me some poem,
Some simple and heartfelt lay,
That shall soothe this restless feeling,
And banish the thoughts of day.

Not from the grand old masters,
Not from the bards sublime,
Whose distant footsteps echo
Through the corridors of Time.

For, like strains of martial music,
Their mighty thoughts suggest
Life's endless toil and endeavor;
And to-night I long for rest.

Read from some humbler poet,
Whose songs gushed from his heart,
As showers from the clouds of summer,
Or tears from the eyelids start;

Who, through long days of labor,
And nights devoid of ease,
Still heard in his soul the music
Of wonderful melodies.

Such songs have power to quiet
The restless pulse of care,
And come like the benediction
That follows after prayer.

Then read from the treasured volume
The poem of thy choice,
And lend to the rhyme of the poet
The beauty of thy voice.

And the night shall be filled with music,
And the cares, that infest the day,
Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs,
And as silently steal away.



michael-jackson.jpg
 
Michael Jackson (Pardon)


Very cute video. It is a compilation of different moments where he says "Pardon ?"



 
MJJLaugh said:
Poem : The Day is Done - by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I came across the following poem in my book "A Treasury of the World's Best Loved Poems" and it made me think of Michael. Therefore I would like to share it with you here.

THE DAY is done, and the darkness
Falls from the wings of Night,
As a feather is wafted downward
From an eagle in his flight.

I see the lights of the village
Gleam through the rain and the mist,
And a feeling of sadness comes o'er me
That my soul cannot resist:

A feeling of sadness and longing,
That is not akin to pain,
And resembles sorrow only
As the mist resembles the rain.

Come, read to me some poem,
Some simple and heartfelt lay,
That shall soothe this restless feeling,
And banish the thoughts of day.

Not from the grand old masters,
Not from the bards sublime,
Whose distant footsteps echo
Through the corridors of Time.

For, like strains of martial music,
Their mighty thoughts suggest
Life's endless toil and endeavor;
And to-night I long for rest.

Read from some humbler poet,
Whose songs gushed from his heart,
As showers from the clouds of summer,
Or tears from the eyelids start;

Who, through long days of labor,
And nights devoid of ease,
Still heard in his soul the music
Of wonderful melodies.

Such songs have power to quiet
The restless pulse of care,
And come like the benediction
That follows after prayer.

Then read from the treasured volume
The poem of thy choice,
And lend to the rhyme of the poet
The beauty of thy voice.

And the night shall be filled with music,
And the cares, that infest the day,
Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs,
And as silently steal away.



michael-jackson.jpg
Click to expand...

Oh, I love Longefellow, thank you so much, MJJLaugh. I used to work next to a bridge and whole complex that was named after Longfellow, cute that you picked him up!

Robert Frost always reminds me a bit of Michael. Especially in trying to see his true reflection in the world, the promise to show him that he did indeed make a difference.

Robert Frost

Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.​
 
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The Zen of Michael Jackson : a Celebration


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Note: How quickly we forget that our sojourn on earth is short. How marvelous it is when we do something remarkable in that space between hello and goodbye. Here at the Soul Sword Zen Community we would like to pause and reflect on a soul who transfused us with his loving energy...Michael Jackson.

Vernon Kitabu Turner
"Kitabu Roshi"

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Michael Jackson gave all he had with each performance


The Zen of Michael Jackson
Vernon Kitabu Turner
(Kitabu Roshi)


My current book is called Soul to Soul. Zen by simple definition is a direct pointing at the soul of man. While Religion purports to reveal the Lord of Heaven, Zen strips us bare to reveal that reflective essence focused as a single being. When we cut through distortions of the mind the pure motive power of our being shines through unimpeded. Asians call it by many names. African Americans just call it soul. Michael Jackson delivered it full force decade after decade. The Bible poses a question, “What is man that thou art mindful of him or the son of man that thou visiteth him? When I watch Michael Jackson perform I feel the spiritual current flowing back through me to the source of all things. The answer is so simple. God loves us because we can send the current of Him back with our own spin on it. We can touch Him when we act from soul (spirit). When we drop the trappings that bind us to a solid world we are like our Eternal Father....free. We are taught that only one who comes like a child can enter the “kingdom of heaven.” No adult in the modern world blazed a more obvious path to that sacred place than our Michael.

Zen activity, soul force, is electric. Once it starts it goes on until spent. Michael Jackson held nothing back when center-stage. Each performance was his only performance, the last one. Perhaps to some people he was just an entertainer but that which comes from the soul directed to the source of creation affects the fabric of the world. It travels, if you will, soul to soul. How clever to disguise a cosmic agent as a child-like singer. While man adores flesh or his carnal nature, God abhors that attachment. “There is no good thing in the flesh,” the scripture says. If a mirror could reflect God there would be only spirit. It is that part of ourselves that we must learn to cultivate.

Michael went deep into the well of his being. When he reflected on his first trip to Africa he spoke in marvelously poetic terms of the rhythm of the people and the land. In doing so he revealed his sensitivity to his environment. That was amplified more when he orchestrated the “We are the World” campaign. Suddenly a better world was in the making.

Michael was humble. Despite his tremendous accomplishments, fame and money, he spoke gently, and with respect to others. That is a significant sign to those who understand. The current of The Spirit flows through us not from us. Man is like a wire through which electricity flows. While he plays a part in the function, he is not the power but the conduit. Many will take the credit for their achievements outright developing a hardened ego. They do not understand. The effect they have will be different...limited.

All human beings are multi-dimensional whether they realize it or not. That is the reason why all cultures have a spiritual tradition. There is a difference between belief and being and between knowing about and experiencing. Many experts know a tremendous amount about things but the Zen of anything is simply living and doing it from Source, a "place" beyond prior thought. The act explodes or flows from the spirit of being. There is no dualism in such action, no hesitation. So Michael danced and we moved. He sang and our vocal chords vibrated. He was one soul expressing for many bodies. Don't just take my word for it. The following depicts the response of people in Sweden to the soul that was Michael Jackson.




Using a single human being to effect many is God's way, after all. One light bulb can illumine a room. What is important to remember is the light and the lamp are different. The lamp can be imperfect. . It does not have to be perfect to hold up the bulb. Its job is to stand. Sometimes, ...those in the dark curse the lamp which holds the light. They don't realize that if no lamps stood they would stay in the darkness. There are no more perfect lamps to be found in this world, only those willing to stand in the flawed vessel of flesh and blood. They can only give the best they can, that and no more. There is a light at the end of the tunnel because someone is holding it.

There have always been beings on the planet who are “born of The Spirit.” For them the body is like a heavy overcoat. Thus the message of gurus and Zen masters have been directed at stripping away the facade to reveal the truth of our being...what is man? Do you really want to know the answer or do you want to become the answer. When a person comes along who can make you feel your spirit, it is a powerful reminder that there is more to us than we can see. Michael reminded us that we are not alone. He, the spiritual man, was right there with us...and so it is. We, too, can be there for each other in our true identity. It is unfortunate that in his darkest hour Michael felt alone I know that Michael is not alone now. It is .those of us who remain here who may be more alone. Many of you grieve for the lost. You can no longer see him. I remind you, however, that when you stand before the mirror you do not see yourself either.


Billie_Jean_video_(02-03-1983).jpg


For a few moments in time we find ourselves in bodies, children of the universe learning our ABC's. Unfortunately, we often think we know everything when in fact we know next to nothing but how to play in the sandbox. The Creator is always speaking to us through us but we are not always listening. We criticize the lamp and fail to appreciate the light. Those who have magnificent gifts and give them freely are often victims of great suffering and unknown sorrow. There is a price to pay for serving humanity. Money cannot pay the cost and human beings are so fickle so as to turn on their heroes at the first hint of a supposed crack in their armor. If you love people and you desire to give them of your soul those people can wound you more viciously than the enemy. When Michael faced accusers in court I wrote then that we had a choice to make. I choose to believe in the innocence of his childlike nature because the currents flow back to Source. I believed, and did not waiver.

The artist has fallen and now his greatness is apparent, highlighted. The music lives on. The rhythm is unbroken. The curtain has not closed on Michael Jackson. A curtain has two sides. He 's just backstage until the rest of the show plays out. You must perform also. Will you pour out the best you have to give without looking back, without seeking approval from those around you? Will you give from the essence of your soul?. Will your activity have the power of Zen because it is real?

Michael Jackson demonstrated a great Zen lesson. He lived Michael Jackson. There is a Zen saying, “When you are really you that is enlightenment.” Who's bad!? Give of yourself completely and your light will burn brightly also. By that I do not suggest that the world will honor and adore you but God, your eternal Father will embrace you directly. The lotus will open. You will have an insider's view of the “show.”

Thank you Michael, you were sensational. we will see you at the family reunion.

Source:
http://www.soulsword.com/kitabu-roshi/the-zen-of-michael-jacksona-celebration/
 
Michael Jackson - The Eternal Light (1976) + Lyrics


The song is called "Eternal Light" and it's sung by the Jackson 5. It's from their alblum "Joyful Jukebox Music". Not only is this a joyous song, but it's message is still up-to-date, for anyone willing to open their heart so that their 'eternal light' can shine as well.



 
MJJLaugh said:
Michael Jackson - The Eternal Light (1976) + Lyrics


The song is called "Eternal Light" and it's sung by the Jackson 5. It's from their alblum "Joyful Jukebox Music". Not only is this a joyous song, but it's message is still up-to-date, for anyone willing to open their heart so that their 'eternal light' can shine as well.
Click to expand...
Great song and is sooooooo beautiful...... :wub: Thanks for posting! :)
 
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