Good-bye, Michael: For the Rest of Us, What Now?

Michael Jackson's memorial ended just today in Los Angeles at the Staples Center. Though I was not there in person, I was watching the event on the television screen from start to finish with countless other citizens of this world. Whether you are a fan, a hater, or completely neutral, there is no denying that Michael Jackson's death was a global event that provoked intense emotions from many people. I hope that everyone takes whatever they feel about Michael Jackson's legacy, and use that emotion or viewpoint to do something for the good of this world right now. Simply because our time in this world is so painfully short. I hope that fans of Michael Jackson are inspired from this day forward to honor the King of Pop by pursuing their life passions to the highest potential and excellence as he did, and take peace in the knowledge that creative talent truly can inspire so many people to feel good and do good. Making people want to break out in dance and move to the music truly is something divine. I also hope that fans of Michael Jackson who want to honor his memory take inspiration from his involvement in charity and humanitarian work. I am a big fan of an idea that a Huffington Post blogger suggested last week: in lieu of leaving flowers and stuffed animals in his memory, why not use that money to support a non-profit organization dedicated to children suffering in other parts of the world? Read the full article here. I am certain MJ himself would be overjoyed if fans directed their sorrow for his passing to the millions of hungry and poor children who are still alive on this earth. Here is a list of charities and causes that Michael Jackson publically supported during his career. I hope that everyday people who got annoyed by the constant Michael Jackson media coverage are inspired by the publicity surrounding Michael Jackson's death to actively get involved in civic service so that they can be active change agents in bringing attention to the local, national and global events that are not covered enough. That, or bring more individual attention to the loved ones and everyday heroes in their lives who, at the end of the day, deserve our undying love and adoration the most. I hope that Los Angeles citizens who were angered by the fact that the memorial service will cost the taxpayers $3.5 million dollars direct their anger into a tangible action-- such as a letter-writing campaign to AEG (the company that owns Staples Center) or sending a letter to the editor of the Los Angeles Times. I hope that non-fans of Michael Jackson who think he is a freak, a creep, or never really liked his music--donate some money to charity anyway. Regardless of our divergent views on Michael Jackson, may we all live with more peace and passion in our hearts from this day forward. See all the Intent blog posts on Michael Jackson here