Ready to Leap as King of Pop Dies...

So, the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, died yesterday at the age of 50! It's hard to believe that the superstar (who made his professional music debut at the age of 11 as part of the Jackson 5) is really gone! What a fantastical life he had....From childhood stardom in a musically talented family, an amazing solo career that includes recording "Thriller"; the best-selling album of all time, extensive controversy over his continually changing appearance and behaviour, his "Neverland Ranch" property containing Ferris wheels, a menagerie and a movie theatre, allegations of child sexual abuse, his friendship with Elizabeth Taylor, his marriage to Lisa Marie Presley and of course the paternity of his children Prince Michael, Paris and Prince Michael II....

As strange and unusual as Michael was I am both sad and happy at the report of his demise. I am sad that such an incredible musical legend and entertainer is no longer alive. A man who's songs and unusual life influenced so much of my childhood in the 80's and 90's. I doubt a Halloween will ever go by where I won't yearn to watch Michael's "Thriller" music video just one more time! Michael popularized the "Moonwalk" and he is half the reason that the combination of leather and zippers were a fad for so much longer then it ever should have been! Despite all the controversy, suspicions and allegations I also admire his humanitarian efforts and charitable donations; many causes for which would not have been recognized or supported without Michael's support and generosity. Many of his songs including "We Are The World", Man In The Mirror and "Heal The World" will remain favourites of mine for years to come. Other favourite songs that obviously developed from the emotional scars and tragedies of childhood stardom and a controversial life including "Will You Be There", "Scream" "Childhood", "They Don't Really Care About Us" and "You Are Not Alone" would certainly not have been written or recorded without Michael's influence.

I am also sad for Michael's children and his family. No matter what the circumstances regarding Michael's life have been; my heart goes out to his children whom are no doubt suffering at the loss of their father. I only hope that Michael Jackson was smart enough to leave a will with conditions regarding the upbringing of his children. On the same token, I hope that the courts will have the decency to honour Jackson's wishes and requests. Yet, another poignant reminder of the importance to draft a will; particularly if you have children.

I am happy that the judgement of the world will no longer haunt every moment of Jackson's life. I truly hope that he can now rest in peace and that wherever his spirit may be now; that it is exactly where he would want it to be. Although Jackson's life (and inevitably his death) is littered with controversy, suspicions and allegations I am happy that his Judgement Day has come and that the "truth may finally set him free".

Just as Michael Jackson's life has ended JG is now learning to run and jump. Over the last couple of days JG is testing the limits of his balance by teetering on the very edge of the sofa, diving head first off the bed and tripping over things (including his own feet) in the rush to get somewhere (for which he received a small goose egg on his head today). Despite my continually repeated warnings and attempts to calm his enthusiasm; JG seems determined to test the laws of speed and gravity. It seems that just as one bruise heals another one appears. I think it may be time to take inventory and restock the first aid kit!