Thoughts of a pessimist

Untimely departure of Michael Jackson was shocking news for many people around the world. Since then, there was enough said and written about him. This is not a tribute to one of my all time favorite musicians, but an attempt to see what we can learn from the so fortunate, yet so unfortunate life of this genius.

First lesson is for all the parents. Michael Jackson’s tragic death is a perfect example of the end result of people who were taken away from their childhood too soon. His father may have been the biggest influence to kick start his incredible career, but later he consistently blamed his father for abusing him when he was a small and taking his childhood away. He was rushed, pushed and eventually stranded in the stardom too soon. No matter how talented your child is, I think it’s important to let them grow freely and let them be in their beautiful world as nature intended.

Second lesson is for all the artists. Most fascinating attribute of Michael Jackson was that he used the same weapon to answer his critics, entertain people, build his image, help unfortunate lives and even to make a change in the society. Most of his creations serve at least one of those purposes. He was always ahead of time, ahead of trends and made others follow him rather than following others. For all those artists who carry shopping carts for political opportunism and popular opinions, there are plenty to learn from this man, if they are willing to think beyond the borders.

Third lesson is for all those who are trying to be kings. Michael Jackson also wanted to be a king in his own kingdom. He was labeled ‘King of Pop’, probably by his own propaganda machinery. On one hand, he deserved the title by all means. On the other hand, whatever said and done to achieve that was at the expense of his own money. But at the end, in his dying moment, where was that crown, throne and kingdom? After his death, will he be remembered by his ‘King’ status or by his incredible creations? Think!

Fourth lesson is for all of us. His life was put in turmoil especially by people for whom penis comes first and ahead of everything. His amazing singing, dancing and song writing skills were often overshadowed by endless references to his sexuality and personal life. People who were gifted with such incredible talents often carry weaknesses within them. That’s how Mother Nature balances it out. But it’s pathetic to see people trying to expose and exploit those weaknesses rather than admiring their capabilities.