Michael Jackson was my all time favorite artist. He was so creative and there was a spirit about his songs that lifted me up no matter how far down I was. His “Bad” album became part of my early recovery because even on my worst days “Bad” had a way of lifting me up. To this day “Keep The Faith” from his Dangerous album, is on my Ipod and listened to often.
Michael Jackson’s music was a universal language enjoyed by everyone around the world. Some say he was the most popular entertainer the world has ever known. He literally gave all of his gifts and talents to the world.
The reports that his death may have been caused by prescription drugs serves as a reminder to us all that drugs, alcohol and addictions in general are not selective. They will take anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Reports also say that Michael passed while in the middle of serious financial difficulties. For years he had to face child molestation allegations.
Although none of this is good, and it was all created by his behavior and decisions, who am I to ever judge another human being? Michael Jackson was simply a human being, like you and me. I can’t help but feel the pain he was going through in the end. Being bankrupt in all aspects of life is not a fun place to be. Life becomes nothing but a burden….but for the grace of God, there go I.
Michael’s death reminds me of my own mortality and the gratitude I must always have for still beating drugs and alcohol a day at a time. Even greater though is what Jesus reminds us of in Mark 8:36 “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?”
God never intends for our life to be a burden and if it is for you, then there is a hole in your soul that needs to be filled by Him.
P.E.A.C.E.
