STORY HERO

Posted on May 1, 2014 by jrling

SOMEONE PUT YOUR HAND OUT

Never try to talk about it

It’s got to sound good to me inside

I just think about it

I’m so undemanding

Cuz they say love is blind

I’ve lived this life pretending

I can bear this hurt deep inside.

The truth is that I’m longing

For love that’s so divine

I’ve searched this whole world wishing

She’ll be there time after time.

SOMEONE PUT YOUR HAND OUT

BEGGING FOR YOUR LOVE

CUZ ALL I DO IS HAND OUT

A HEART THAT NEEDS YOUR LOVE.

I’ve lived my life the lonely

A soul that cries of shame

In handicapped emotions

Save me now from what still remains.

I’LL BE YOUR STORY HERO

A serenading rhyme

I’m just needing that someone

Save me now from the back of my mind.

When you say we will dance until the light of day

It’s just like the children in earth’s joy-when we pray

Will you promise you’ll always stay

It’s because I’m needing that someone

All I can do is hand out

LOVE.

“Someone Put Your Hand Out”

Michael Jackson

The Ultimate Collection Album 2004

“His presence in the world was a powerful ingredient within the overall antidote to the mega-tons of despair that can weigh human souls so far down that for millions (if not billions) life on earth feels more and more like death in hell. His voice remains part of the antidote. That’s antidote as in: anti-hatred, anti-war, anti-ignorance, anti-abuse, anti-oppression, anti-prejudice, anti-bigotry, anti-fear. And just to be clear, to speak of Jackson’s voice is to speak of more than the acoustic timbre that radiates like vibrating sunlight from his lungs and heart and throat. It is to acknowledge that quality of genius for giving, living, serving, teaching, loving. exemplifying simplicity, and creating that comprised the essence of everything he strived to become.”

Aberjhani on Michael

To me, A STORY HERO is someone who spans the sumptuous dimensions of living, merging fire and ice, pain and ecstasy…timeless, resilient, majestic. Reaching the edges of imagination, A STORY HERO feeds body and soul…stretching creativity, capturing the sublime. STORY HEROES are usually fictional, heart lifting characters, spectacular and perfect. We smile when thinking of them, realizing it is all play. When I first heard “Someone Put Your Hand Out”, I immediately knew Michael Jackson had become my STORY HERO. So often I have tried to explain to friends my epiphany moment when I realized Michael Jackson’s life reaffirmed every value I hold dear. Having been raised a Christian, I could see Jesus’ teachings in Michael’s life. He studied all religions and found common threads. He wrote about God. The essence of his understanding was LOVE…the cornerstone of all faith. Attempting to explain to others the massiveness of his life still finds me tongue-tied. Simply described, there is not a topic, a discussion, a theme, a human emotion that cannot be explained by LIVING THE MICHAEL WAY…at least, in my six year journey, I have found none. Michael lived the human condition. He shared the human condition. His emotion, vulnerability, vitality, empathy and pathos all speak to the human heart. Today, a lovely angel asked how I continue to come up with ideas for articles. Michael shows me what else I can do…it happens all the time. “Love is what makes life alive, joyful and new.” Michael Jackson “It’s the juice and energy that motivates my music, my dancing, everything. As long as love is in my heart, it’s everywhere.” Michael’s huge heart, his huge life, his huge love define STORY HERO to me. Thriller Photo Shoot Dick Zimmerman Photographer

“Zimmerman recalls that at the beginning of the photo shoot, Michael Jackson was very shy. Once the little tiger was brought into the studio, Michael started to relax. ‘He had a way to interact and connect with the animal that was significant,” says Zimmerman. It was absolutely fascinating to work with such a person. Michael is truly unique, and one day, maybe in 100 or 1000 years, the world will get it. The tiger was named Little William and was much more nervous than Michael. But, Michael’s tender personality, and spirit helped him to calm down. The harmony between the tiger and Michael inspired the entire team and more than 300 pictures were taken that day. In the end, Michael and the tiger were inseparable.”

“He was a sweet man. He worked hard and was the consummate gentleman. You can’t believe how kind this guy was. I know this sounds bizarre, but the first few years I worked with him…this was the closest person I know who was a Jesus character because he was always just so loving to everybody. He never said an unkind word to anyone that worked for him. He was always so gracious. He was extremely shy and grateful. He was an important artist and a great man.” Vincent Paterson

“When I was a kid, I was denied not only a childhood, but I was denied love. When I reached out to hug my father, he didn’t hug me back. When I was scared on an airplane, he didn’t put his arm around me and say, ‘Michael, don’t worry. It’s going to be OK.’ When I was scared to go on stage, he said, ‘Get your ass on that stage.’ I WILL NEVER DENY A CHILD LOVE. IF IT MEANS THAT I HAVE TO BE CRUCIFIED OR PUT IN JAIL FOR IT, THEN THAT’S JUST WHAT THEY’RE GOING TO HAVE TO DO.” Michael Jackson

My STORY HERO isn’t fictional…he is very real. He inspires me to do more, be more. His tender, often broken heart, never stopped beating for love no matter how long the crucifixion. His quest for social justice and earth conscious practices never faltered no matter the personal cost. He proclaimed love in his every movement. His voice spoke for the plight of children. The worldwide congregation of kindred spirits put their collective hands out in massive efforts to protect and defend Michael Jackson’s life and legacy. SOMEONE PUT YOUR HAND OUT…BEGGING FOR YOUR LOVE…ALL I DO IS HAND OUT…A HEART THAT NEEDS YOUR LOVE. My hand is out, you have my love, Michael…and, my heart. Jude HIS story MYstory YOURstory OURstory

“TRAVEL IN THE LIGHT, MICHAEL.”

Posted on April 30, 2014 by jrling

You and I must make a pact

We must bring salvation back

Where there is love

I’ll be there.

I reach out my hand to you

I have faith in all you do

Just call my name

And, I’ll be there.

Michael Jackson

Reaching toward rebirth, spring time offers a kaleidoscope in nature’s creative ability. Throwing off the heavy garments of winter, all life begins to spread its wings. Michael’s prophetic words of awareness, awakening and hope take form. “It’s like stepping into a river and joining the flow. Every moment in the river has its song. So, I stay in the moment and listen.” Michael Jackson Michael was deeply in touch with nature seeing the intricate connections in all things. His vitality and vulnerability touches us way down deep in our core. Simply put, we feel him. His intensity of passion for learning, deeply and consciously felt, fuels our need to know more, see more, do more. The journey with Michael is often disruptive and disturbing, drawing us even closer. Shy and bold at the same time, Michael’s agenda for a lifetime reminds me of the words from Goethe: “BOLDNESS HAS COURAGE, GENIUS AND MAGIC IN IT.”

And so, we have made a pact to bring salvation back trusting in Michael completely with unconditional love and faith. He is there and we are calling his name. Our artistic evolution comes from time taken to really know the man. We have never been more fascinated before or since. I guess I am being rather bold here in attempting to speak for others. I know for certain I am speaking for myself. And…I am blessed with beautifully written and spoken words, heartfelt and expressed by him and those who loved him. We are all members of a counter-culture, those who think outside the box and spend little time trying to fit in.

Sometimes, the sharing part of the journey is the most frustrating…not with others who have taken time to learn and discover…but, with those who have not. No matter how many times I try to put conversational language to chasing the magic, my words fall so very short, leaving the listener either baffled or apathetic. Later, reflecting on my inabilities, I feel I have let Michael down once again. It is easier for me to write about this intense passion than to talk about it…not because I can’t articulate the facts, but because I try to squeeze in way too much, leaving the listener on overload. A Dear Kindred Spirit, Sue, described herself as a STEADFAST ADMIRER. I love that! She said, “MICHAEL COMES EVERYWHERE WITH ME. HE IS NEVER OUT OF MY MIND AND CERTAINLY RESIDES IN MY HEART. MICHAEL’S INFLUENCE ON MY LIFE IS HUGE AND ONGOING…MAY IT ALWAYS BE SO.”

“When I met Michael, he came and said, ‘I cannot wait. I wanted to meet you.’ Then he embraced me. Nobody can understand what this man transmits, angelic, generosity, a high spirit. An authentic artist, I studied him carefully. In my life I saw many artists, but Michael is like no one. It was energy, a master beside him, and the world seemed more serene. Every gesture of Michael’s had a profound reason. He didn’t need words to convey a message.”

Irina Brecher Hamilton THIS IS IT

“The only thing that matters in life is having someone who understands you, who trusts you and who will be with you no matter what.”

Michael Jackson

“When children listen to music, they don’t just listen, they melt into the melody and flow with the rhythm. Something inside starts to unfold its wings and soon the child and the music are one.”

Michael Jackson

Our admiration, our unconditional love, our respect and our loyalty all lie in understanding a man whose life gives us a blueprint for living. Mistakes are important for they are how we learn…that is a life lesson we are all painfully aware of…however, with two lives…the one we learn with, and one we live with after…Michael shows us a purity of spirit which defines a life well-lived. Devoting his life to children, both healing them and giving them a voice, Michael not only put action to word…he personified a child’s heart. DANCING THE DREAM is an owner’s manual for living. Found on the pages of that book is everything needed for the human experience.

WHEN BABIES SMILE

WHEN DREAMERS DREAM AND KISS THEIR LOVER

AND RAINBOWS WEAVE AND SPLASH THEIR COLOR

THOSE ARE MOMENTS SO GLORIOUSLY ALIVE

WE TAKE THE PLUNGE, TAKE THE DIVE

INTO THE ABYSS

WE ARE SUSPENDED AWHILE

THOSE ARE THE MOMENTS WHEN BABIES SMILE.

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN FATE IS UNSEALED

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE AND WE ARE HEALED

WE CAN SOAR, WE CAN FLY

WALK ON FIRE, NAVIGATE THE SKY

IN THE LIGHT OF A GLITTERING STAR

THERE’S NO DISTANCE, NOTHING IS FAR

THOSE ARE MOMENTS OF INNOCENT GUILE

IN THE GLOW

WE ARE SUSPENDED AWHILE

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN BABIES SMILE.

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN THE HEART IS TENDER

WHEN SEASCAPES GLEAM IN MAGNIFICENT SPLENDOR

WHEN THE LAUGHTER OF HEAVEN REVERBERATES THE EARTH

IN A TIMELESS ETERNITY IN THE ANGELS’ FRATERNITY WE ROMP AND ROLL

THE PLAYGROUND OF OUR SOUL

IN THE TWILIGHT

WE ARE SUSPENDED AWHILE

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN BABIES SMILE.

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WE’RE ONE WITH GOD

ALL IS WELL, NOTHING IS ODD

IN SILENT REFLECTION

WE FEEL OUR PERFECTION

WE ARE THE SOURCE, WE ARE THE CRUCIBLE

THERE IS NO SIN, THERE IS NO SINNER

WE CAN ONLY WIN, WE HAVE FELT THE GLIMMER

IN THE BLISS

WE’RE FLOATING AWHILE

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN BABIES SMILE.

KINGDOMS TOPPLE, LOSE THEIR CLASS

CIVILIZATIONS CRUMBLE, AGES PASS

TURBULENT TEMPESTS RAVAGE THE SEAS

VIOLENT KILLINGS, DESPITE OUR PLEAS

BUT DEWDROPS SPARKLE WHEN CHILDREN PLAY

TYRANTS CRY, THERE’S NOTHING TO SLAY

FAIRIES DANCE AND GOBLINS SING

ALL ARE CROWNED, ALL ARE KING

IN THE GARDEN

WE FROLIC AWHILE

THOSE ARE MOMENTS WHEN BABIES SMILE.

Michael Jackson

We have the gift of traveling in the light with Michael, spreading our wings and seeing the ripple effect of millions of voices finding faith in the winds. “Where there is love, I’ll be there.” I love you, Michael.

Jude

HIS tory

MYstory

YOURstory

OURstory

“YOU GAVE ME HOPE WHEN ALL HOPE WAS LOST”

Posted on April 18, 2014 by jrling

“HOPE IS SUCH A BEAUTIFUL WORD, BUT IT OFTEN SEEMS VERY FRAGILE”

DANCING THE DREAM

Michael Jackson

“Confidence and hope are different things. Confidence is the inner conviction that we are equal to whatever task is before us. It is the certainty that we are bright enough, strong enough, powerful enough to meet the challenge and best it. Hope, on the other hand, is what sustains us when we have little or no confidence left. At the end of a bad stretch, hope-hope that the will of God will finally prevail-is all that is left to sustain us. When it becomes clear that the things on which we have depended aren’t really dependable, hope must replace confidence, or nothing can replace confidence at all. Hope knows that whatever happens, God lives. Hope expects that however bad it looks, this moment will ultimately yield something good. Hope says begin again. Winners may have confidence, but real heroes-those who have seen bad times and lived to rise above them-live in hope.” Joan Chittister, IN MY OWN WORDS

“You have to have that tragedy, that pain to pull from. That’s what makes a clown great. You can see he’s hurting behind the masquerade. He’s something else externally. I can play off those moments, too. I’ve been through the fire many times.” Michael Jackson

I must admit that my family has recently walked through the fires of a bad stretch. Numbed in the moment, we each pulled together the strength to carry on. Angels educated in all manner of medicine sustained us as we spent days reeling, and, ultimately gaining health. The man I have been married to for over four decades manages to find confidence in medical angels and summons such hope throughout battles that I am constantly in awe of him. He is able to see past the now and into the future. He is and has been a real hero who rises above bad times while living in great hope.

“TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A CHANGE IN THE WORLD. TOGETHER WE CAN HELP TO STOP RACISM. TOGETHER WE CAN HELP TO STOP PREJUDICE. WE CAN HELP THE WORLD LIVE WITHOUT FEAR. IT’S OUR ONLY HOPE, WITHOUT HOPE WE ARE LOST.” Michael Jackson Exeter June 14, 2002

I have a memory of sitting and talking with my mother about sensitivity, more specifically, MY sensitivity. We are a product of our childhood and a part of that for me is that my passion comes from my mom and my peacemaking from my dad. Sensitivity, well, I came into the world that way. During the conversation with my mom I remember her saying, “I wish we would have raised you tougher!” My immediate response was, “But you didn’t. THIS IS WHO I AM.” I know my mom was feeling that life would be easier for me if I were less sensitive. I must admit I can get physically ill when encountering injustices. And, the anger I feel gives me that inner conviction to speak out in an attempt to try and make a difference…or, at the very least, to educate those that are unaware.

But, when it comes to hope…I reach out for help. I have chosen this journey with Michael Jackson for a multitude of reasons: His artistry, his musical genius, his beauty, his magic, his sensuality, his aura, his mesmerizing dance and performance. Of course, I could go on and on and on. Other artists may evoke a list such as this, although, I see no equal…but, the story doesn’t end there. There is no doubt Michael Jackson was a WINNER of unparalleled magnitude. Beyond that, Michael was chosen…to be a messenger… brought to show the world how to love. He was chosen to speak out for justice. He was chosen to be the voice for the voiceless…the children and the environment. He took his messages to the world community and inspired masses of people to feel the confidence for change. His words inspired good works…they still do. He is a hero because he suffered many, many bad times and rose above each and every one. HE LIVED IN HOPE OF A BETTER WORLD.

Whenever I feel my confidence falter, I turn to the music…I turn to the message…I CALL THE MAN. Revisiting reveals greater truths. “RELAX YOUR MIND…LAY BACK AND GROOVE WITH MINE.” Seeing and hearing again teaches me more. Suddenly, that fragile hope melts into my fearful heart and I breathe a sigh of relief.

You gave me strength when I wasn’t strong

You gave me hope when all hope was lost

You opened my eyes when I couldn’t see

Love was always here waiting for me.

Michael Jackson YOU ARE MY LIFEhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouPX6ZzDHpI

The search for God is a project of a lifetime…and, for me, Michael helps me in my quest. He lived the life I aspire to…he offers hope when I see none. He stood up every time he was knocked down. He points the way for me to be a better person. His verses go on and I want to do all I can to be a part of the music. Although fragile, hope is our lifeline revealing something good.

I love you all!

Jude

HIS tory

MYstory

YOURstory

OURstory

HOW THE STORY ENDS

Posted on March 28, 2014 by jrling

“INVINCIBLE is just as good or better than Thriller, in my true, humble opinion. It has more to offer. Music is what lives and lasts. INVINCIBLE has been a great success. When the Nutcracker Suite was first introduced to the world it totally bombed. WHAT’S IMPORTANT IS HOW THE STORY ENDS.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tkj2vL19J3g

Michael Jackson

Best Album of the Decadehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juZVW5lYb8k

Billboard Magazine

“BUT, I DON’T FEEL THAT WAY…THOSE PROBLEMS AREN’T ‘OUT THERE,’ NOT REALLY. I FEEL THEM INSIDE ME. A CHILD CRYING IN ETHIOPIA, A SEA GULL STRUGGLING PATHETICALLY IN AN OIL SPILL, A MOUNTAIN GORILLA BEING MERCILESSLY HUNTED, A TEENAGE SOLDIER TREMBLING WITH TERROR WHEN HE HEARS PLANES FLY OVER: AREN’T THESE HAPPENING TO ME WHEN I SEE AND HEAR ABOUT THEM?”

Michael Jackson

DANCING THE DREAM

This morning, my need was great to turn to the music that lives and lasts in my psyche. I yearned to sing at the top of my voice and move with Michael’s rhythmic layers. Someone said if you ask me what is my favorite Michael Jackson album I would say that it would be as if you asked what is the favorite breath I’ve taken. That answer fits me. Each experience offers inspiration for the moment at hand. This morning, I needed to be moved to another level and so I wept as I sang “I just don’t know the right thing to say…I try but all my pain gets in the way.” My body then wildly danced to “Threatened” as I spit the words out into the air hoping to hit a nearby “journalist.” My heart ached for “The Lost Children.” And, then, there was “CRY.” Michael makes a lot of classics. “CRY” is one of them. As with all of Michael’s anthems, our hearts are captured and our souls won. With each phrase emotions build, our bodies join the dance and we are moved as one voice to join Michael’s worldwide movement of love. All the world’s problems become a part of us when we are in Michael’s arms. Instead of being a spectator, we yearn to make a little space to make a better place and try to heal our world. Michael does that to us.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj3MfUR35CM

“CRY revisits a sentiment Michael Jackson had been delivering his entire solo career. He cries because he sees tragedy all around him and internalizes it. He sings of people barely holding on, not knowing when the pain will end; he sings of ‘stories buried and untold’ of people ‘hiding the truth’; he sings of illusions and masks (‘faces filled with madness’; people laugh when they’re feeling sad”). Then, in the chorus, he makes a plea (with his listeners and with himself) to somehow overcome. What connects us isn’t pretending the tragedy doesn’t exist, but seeing it for what it is and confronting is as a collective. Released shortly after 9/11, CRY was exactly the kind of song that was needed in such a devastating moment. The core of the song is much deeper, looking inward and outward at the same time, and offering no easy answers. As a lamentation, it conveys the ‘sound of trauma.’ Listen to the desolate wind blow in the beginning and the slow, aching drumbeat. It conveys an alienation that recalls the intro to STRANGER IN MOSCOW. Jackson’s vocals are not celebratory, but melancholy and restrained. As with previous anthems, it takes the help of the choir (symbolizing community) for him to find hope and resolve. The majestic call and response he engages in at the climax is classic Michael Jackson, demonstrating the purposeful communication that must take place if we are ever to ‘change the world’.”

MAN IN THE MUSIC

JOSEPH VOGEL

Over the years, I have collected dozens of wonderful books giving me vast amounts of information to PAY MICHAEL FORWARD. MAN IN THE MUSIC is one that I return to time and time again when I am looking for brilliant assessments of Michael’s artistry. I have become a student of Joseph Vogel’s books. I might be a little embarrassed if he ever saw the condition each is in, for they are written on, and have sticky notes coming from all their pages. For me, his dedicated research and stunning writing educates the amateur music student that I am. He sees the artist and the musical genius clearly.

ONCE WE WERE THERE

BEFORE THE BEGINNING, BEFORE THE VIOLENCE

BEFORE THE ANGUISH OF THE BROKEN SILENCE

A THOUSAND LONGINGS, NEVER UTTERED

PANGS OF SORROW, BRUTALLY SMOTHERED

BUT I HAVE CHOSEN TO BREAK AND BE FREE

CUT THOSE TIES, SO I CAN SEE

THOSE BONDS THAT IMPRISONED ME IN MEMORIES OF PAIN

THOSE JUDGMENTS, INTERPRETATIONS THAT CLUTTERED MY BRAIN

THOSE FESTERING WOUNDS THAT LINGERED HAVE GONE

IN THEIR PLACE A NEW LIFE HAS DAWNED

THAT LONELY CHILD, STILL CLUTCHING HIS TOY

HAS MADE HIS PEACE, DISCOVERED HIS JOY

WHERE TIME IS NOT, IMMORTALITY’S CLEAR

WHERE LOVE ABOUNDS, THERE IS NO FEAR

THE CHILD HAS GROWN TO WEAVE HIS MAGIC

LEFT BEHIND

HIS LIFE OF SORROW, ONCE SO TRAGIC

HE IS NOW, READY TO SHARE

READY TO LOVE, READY TO CARE

UNFOLD HIS HEART, WITH NOTHING TO SPARE

JOIN HIM NOW, IF YOU DARE

Michael Jackson

DANCING THE DREAM

Together, My Dear Friends, we are ready to care, unfolding our hearts and joining Michael as WE ALL CRY AT THE SAME TIME TONIGHT. He is inside each of us, his music lasts and his message is forever. I love you.

Jude

HIS tory

MYstory

YOURstory

OURstory

MAESTRO

Posted on March 21, 2014 by jrling

MAESTRO…a master of any art, especially a great composer or teacher of music

“PEOPLE ASK ME HOW I MAKE MUSIC. I TELL THEM I JUST STEP INTO IT. IT’S LIKE STEPPING INTO A RIVER AND JOINING THE FLOW. EVERY MOMENT IN THE RIVER HAS ITS SONG. SO, I STAY IN THE MOMENT AND LISTEN.”

DANCING THE DREAM

Michael Jackson

1992

“As I said before, in those early days ‘The Corporation’ at Motown produced and shaped all our music. I remember lots of times when I felt the song should be sung one way and the producers felt it should be sung another way. But, for a long time I was very obedient and wouldn’t say anything about it. Finally it reached a point where I got fed up with being told exactly how to sing. This was in 1972 when I was fourteen years old, around the time of the song ‘Lookin’ Through the Windows.’ They wanted me to sing a certain way, and I knew they were wrong. No matter what age you are, if you have it and you know it, then people should listen to you. I was furious with our producers and very upset. So I called Berry Gordy and complained. I said that they had always told me how to sing, and I had agreed all this time, but now they were getting too…mechanical. So he came into the studio and told them to let me do what I wanted to do. And after that, I started adding a lot of vocal twists that they really ended up liking. I’d do a lot of ad-libbing, like twisting words or adding some edge to them.”

MOONWALK

Michael Jackson

1988

Today, I want to step into the river and go with the flow…the river being a study of Michael Jackson… MAESTRO…the flow being language that gives sparkles of definition of genius. I will touch on sparkles coming from the Master himself. And, there will be sparks coming from those whose lives were touched by the light. To be sure, those of you who are Michaelers will delight in familiar waters. To your surprise, however, you may discover some new territory. Either way, “IF YOU WANT TO BE CLOSE TO ME, LISTEN TO MY MUSIC. THE LOVE IS STORED THERE.” (MJ) Returning to great artistry reaffirms magical and wondrous elements of living. THE MORE WE EXPERIENCE MICHAEL JACKSON…THE GREATER THE LOVE.

“I asked him why he didn’t learn to read music and he replied: God had given him this gift and he was afraid that learning too much about the intellectual side of music would mess it up.” George Atwell

“His genius as a musician is that he thinks of sounds in terms of images; his genius as a singer is that he creates melodic lines that evoke body lines; his genius as a producer is that he imagines a song as a concert.” MJJJustice Projecthttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZUDYxo2Sso

“But I do love achieving goals. I love not only reaching a mark I’ve set for myself but exceeding it. Doing more than I thought I could, that’s a great feeling.” He wanted to innovate sonically. It took over 800 multitrack tapes to create BAD. He has precise musical instincts. He has an entire record in his head and he tries to make people deliver and augment what he hears, but really his job is to extract from musicians and producers and engineers what he hears when he wakes up in the morning. When he did do vocals, beyond his lead work, it was always a pleasure to listen to this man lay background harmonies. His voice was truly unique. Really pure tone, and great intonation. He heard music in everything. Michael loved finding new sounds that the human ear had never heard. Michael wanted everything to sound original. These were lofty goals, but then, Jackson was never one to aim low. A HALL OF SOUND.” Taken from Joseph Vogel MAN IN THE MUSIC 2011

“I LIKE TO TAKE SOUNDS AND PUT THEM UNDER THE MICROSCOPE AND JUST TALK ABOUT HOW WE WANT TO MANIPULATE THE CHARACTER OF IT.” Even during the trial in 2005, he continued to work on new material. He said writing new songs was therapeutic, and he was working on new ideas whenever he could. MAN IN THE MUSIC Joseph Vogel

“Michael had the ability to sing all the notes in a chord that he wanted. Jeff would play something and Michael would agree, or not. They worked out the arrangement and recorded it at the Hit Factory. Jeff stayed in the live room to record the guitar and Michael sat between me and Bruce at the console with just a mic and sang it straight down. Michael nailed it. That’s how that song lived for a long time, just the vocal and the guitar. For me and maybe for all his fans, that’s all we want to hear. His voice is so perfect that sometimes you just want to hear it simply with an acoustic guitar.”

(What impressed you most about Michael?) “A couple of things: Obviously his musicality, he can sing or beat box anything. When he sang a melody it was very clear and you could hear exactly what he wanted. Of course his work ethic never waned even though he was dealing with some serious personal and business issues. He was genuine, happy and responsive to people’s input. He knew what he wanted and had a drive for perfection but never came across as a slave driver. You don’t find that in a single other individual. We never saw him angry or bitter or upset. It was just a process for him to tell a story to his fans.” Rob Hoffman HIS tory and Blood on the Dance Floor

“The biggest lesson I learned from working with Michael and all the others was the importance of a team effort: collaborate to create the best! To be part of that team is a treasure to me and a privilege.” Matt Forger

MUSIC AND ME

“Tired? No, you can’t stop moving. If you stop moving you stop learning, and if you stop learning you stop producing. If you stop producing, you’re dead. If you tire out you’re forgotten. So you don’t get tired.” Michael Jackson 1976

“He was in the booth and he was singing his butt off. And after every take he was like, ‘Sorry, sorry.’ And I looked back and I’m like, ‘What is he saying sorry for?’ I look at Akon, and RedOne is in the room, and we are like, ‘It sounds amazing!’ And we already had goose bumps. And it wasn’t just because it was Michael Jackson, it was because he was singing his butt off! He was so well-practiced and so good at singing that even when he thought he wasn’t doing so well, his chops and delivery were way better than anybody we’ve ever dealt with.” Mark Goodchild

“One of the things he always told me was don’t be afraid to be different. In other words, when you have that desire, the drive, people are going to try to pull you away from that, and pull you closer to the pack to be ‘normal.’ And he was saying it’s O.K. to be that driven: it’s O.K. to be obsessed with what you want to do. That’s perfectly fine. Don’t be afraid to not deviate from that. One of the books that he gave me that helped him communicate with me was JONATHAN LIVINGSTON SEAGUL., which was about that.” Kobe Bryant

“A lot of hard work, discipline and love, and learning about the craft and loving it. Time. Sacrificing your time, and your scheduling. Your childhood, giving up your life for the medium. I think I would re-experience these sacrifices, though. I think I would. It is very much worth it. I have always loved show business and have always enjoyed making people happy through that medium. I love the celebration of music and dance and art. I just love it.” Michael Jackson 2008

“LET THE SONG CREATE ITSELF. LET IT TELL YOU WHERE TO GO.” Michael Jackson

“He studied me at the time and I could tell he was studying me. I’d be maybe explaining something to them. I could tell the way he had his eyes fixated on my mouth, you know, and how he was listening to every word, he was focused. And even when I turned my back, the other kids might be playing with each other, their instruments, or hitting each other, doing what, and I would turn around and Michael was staring right at me.” Berry Gordy

“DANCING IS THE MOST WONDERFUL THINGS OF ALL TIME BECAUSE PEOPLE COMMUNICATED THROUGH BODILY MOVEMENT BEFORE ANYTHING…DANCING IS REALLY SHOWING YOUR EMOTIONS THROUGH BODILY MOVEMENT…WHEN I DANCE, I REALLY FEEL IT, I FEEL FREE, AND I DO WHAT I FEEL. NOTHING LIKE BEING ON STAGE, YOU CAN’T PUT IT INTO WORDS.” Michael Jackson 1984http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paMZBerFc1I

I feel the river surge with language defining a maestro as I strike each character. Warm tears sparkle over my cheeks. I feel Michael teaching me how to live my life. These stories offer layers of understanding as I learn from the Master. MICHAEL JACKSON…MAESTRO. Thank you for changing my life. I love you.

Jude

HIS tory

MYstory

YOURstory

OURstory

MELTING INTO THE MUSIC

Posted on March 15, 2014 by jrling

“I keep dancing and dancing…and dancing, until there is only the dance.”

Michael Jackson

DANCING THE DREAM

Our Artist’s Dates have often included chasing the moon. Tom has photographed the magnificence of early dawn and waning dusk moons inspiring those who take in his incredible art. This morning’s dawn moon loomed orange as it slipped down into the horizon. In the fullness of its splendor, I could almost see the beautiful silhouette of Michael dancing and that image filled me with hope for the day. It feels right to share his words today giving us all a voice to strengthen our optimism for the world’s healing.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qLY0vbrT8Q

DANCE OF LIFE

“I cannot escape the moon. Its soft beams push aside the curtains at night. I don’t even have to see it-a cool blue energy falls across my bed and I am up. I race down the dark hall and swing open the door, not to leave home but to go back to it. ‘Moon, I’m here!’ I shout.

‘Good,’ she replies. ‘Now give us a little dance.’

But my body has started moving long before she says anything. When did it start? I can’t remember-my body has always been moving.

Since childhood I have reacted to the moon this way, as her favorite lunatic, and not just hers. The stars draw me near, close enough so that I see through their twinkling act. They’re dancing, too, doing a soft molecular jiggle that makes my carbon atoms jump in time.

With my arms flung wide, I head for the sea, which brings out another dance in me. Moon dancing is slow inside, and soft as blue shadows on the lawn. When the surf booms, I hear the heart of the earth, and the tempo picks up. I feel the dolphins leaping in the white foam, trying to fly, and almost flying when the waves curl high to the heavens. Their tails leave arcs of light as plankton glow in the waves. A school of minnows rises up, flashing silver in the moonlight like a new constellation.

‘Ah!’ the sea says. ‘Now we’re gathering a crowd.’

I run along the beach, catching waves with one foot and dodging them with the other. I hear faint popping sounds- a hundred panicky sand crabs are ducking into their holes, just in case. But I’m racing now, sometimes on my toes, sometimes running flat-out. I throw my head back and a swirling nebula says, ‘Fast now, twirl!’

Grinning, ducking my head for balance, I start to spin as wildly as I can. This is my favorite dance, because it contains a secret. The faster I twirl, the more I am still inside. My dance is all motion without, all silence within. As much as I love to make music, it’s the unheard music that never dies. And silence is my real dance, though it never moves. It stands aside, my choreographer of grace, and blesses each finger and toe.

I have forgotten the moon now and the sea and the dolphins, but I am in their joy more than ever. As far away as a star, as near as a grain of sand, the presence rises shimmering with light. I could be in it forever, it is so loving and warm. But touch it once, and light shoots forth from the stillness. It quivers and thrills me, and I know my fate is to show others that this silence, this light, this blessing is my dance. I take this gift only to give it again.

‘Quick, give!’ says the light.

As never before, I try to obey, inventing new steps, now gestures of joy. All at once I sense where I am, running back up the hill. The light in my bedroom is on. Seeing it brings me back down. I begin to feel my pounding heart, the drowsiness in my arms, the warm blood in my legs. My cells want to dance slower. ‘Can we walk a little?’ they ask. ‘It’s been kind of wild.’

‘Sure.’ I laugh, slowing to an easy amble.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_SZbbReAGY

I turn the doorknob, panting lightly, glad to be tired. Crawling back into bed, I remember something that I always wonder at. They say that some of the stars that we see overhead aren’t really there. Their light takes millions of years to reach us, and all we are doing is looking into the past, to a bygone moment when those stars could still shine.

‘So what does a star do after it quits shining?’ I ask myself. ‘Maybe it dies.’

‘Oh no,” a voice in my head says, ‘A star can never die. It just turns into a smile and melts back into the cosmic music, the dance of life.’ I like that thought, the last one I have before my eyes close. With a smile, I melt into the music myself.”

I recall researching Michael’s time in Ireland. He asked the gentleman who secured a property for Michael and his children to keep outdoor lights on throughout the nights. Wondering why and curious about Michael’s intentions, he secretly hid behind some shrubs. There was Michael dancing under the stars in the moonlight. Michael’s security details often heard music throughout the night and knew that ‘THE BOSS WAS DANCING’.

I find such peace in these stories. No matter what the world hurled at Michael, his belief in joy healing was ever present. He gathered strength from his creativity. It propelled him. Knowing that, I feel stronger. Michael is my inspiration and my hope for myself and for the world. Today, seeing the glories of a huge orange ball in the heavens, I feel Michael taking his gifts and giving them again.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRxycXTQR-E

I love you!

Jude

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“WINGS WITHOUT ME” Michael Jackson

Posted on March 13, 2014 by jrling

“WINGS WITHOUT ME”

Michael Jackson

DANCING THE DREAM

“It was August, and I was looking up at the sky. With one hand shielding my eyes, I made out a falcon soaring on the currents of hot swirling air. Higher and higher it spiraled, until with one unearthly shriek, it disappeared.

All at once I felt left behind. ‘Why did you grow wings without me?’ I mourned. Then my spirit said, ‘the falcon’s way is not the only way. Your thoughts are as free as any bird.’ So I shut my eyes and my spirit took off, spiraling as high as the falcon and then beyond, so that I was looking down over the whole earth. But something was wrong. Why did I feel so cold and alone?

‘You grew wings without me,’ my heart said. ‘What good is freedom without love?’ So I went quietly to the bed of a sick child and sang him a lullaby. He fell asleep smiling, and my heart took off, joining my spirit as it circled over the earth. I was free and loving, but still something was wrong.

‘You grew wings without me,’ my body said. ‘Your flights are only imagination.’ So I looked into books that I had ignored before and read about saints in every age who actually flew. In India, Persia, China, and Spain (even in Los Angeles!), the power of spirit has reached, not just into the heart, but into every cell of the body. ‘As if carried aloft by a great eagle,’ Saint Teresa said, ‘my ecstasy lifted me into the air.’

I began to believe in this amazing feat, and for the first time, I didn’t feel left behind. I was the falcon and the child and the saint. In my eyes their lives became sacred, and the truth came home: When all life is seen as divine, everyone grows wings.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiyD2Erf3ek

Today,my early walk with Casey seemed to lack its usual spirituality. This week, life has been a challenge as my husband struggles with serious medical issues…he and I trying to summon courage as each day begins. Today, that courage was lacking and I found myself feeling weary and drained. Turning for home, a flock of crows swept by us, perching in nearby trees, noisily discussing the day ahead, their shiny black feathers glistening in the sun. I turned to check on Casey and noticed he had something black in his mouth. My patience running on empty, I scolded him and waved his pooper bag in front of him trying to distract him from eating whatever it was. GOOD LUCK WITH THAT! Amazingly enough, the object disappeared and we continued toward home when I realized that whatever it was now was attached to Casey’s leash. It was a beautiful black crow’s feather. Hot tears rolled down my cheeks as I accepted this message of hope.

Michael Jackson was and is God’s messenger for the modern age. He put teachable moments in all aspects of his work…words, sounds, music, visuals. Through movement, his body told stories. Hours after returning home, with the crow’s feather sitting at my writing station, I selected from Michael’s wisdom the article I wanted to send out into the world. Almost immediately, I received this: “It will all be turned around. Truth is stronger than lies-like an eagle is stronger than a mouse. It isn’t important to Michael the spirit that Michael the man is vindicated, as much as it is important that INNOCENCE and LOVE be vindicated. To have these intentions be SO misunderstood hurts not only man, but mankind.” Heaven Leigh

Michael, Heaven and The Crow’s Feather, all helped me summon courage for today. My thoughts have been freed…I went to my husband’s hospital bed with a renewed spirit of hope, I found a measure of truth and I took flight.

I leave you with this: PEOPLE WHO WERE LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE EXPERIENCED BEING NEAR HIM SAID THAT WHEN HE ENTERED INTO A ROOM, THE ROOM CHANGED. PEOPLE, CHILDREN FLOCKED TO MICHAEL. HIS LOVE FOR HUMANITY WAS EVIDENT IN THE WAY HE TREATED EVERY SINGLE PERSON HE MET. HE HAD NO EGO. HE WAS VERY HUMBLE. HE WAS A TEACHER WITH A MESSAGE. HE REACHED AND TOUCHED THE ENTIRE WORLD WITH HIS MUSIC. HIS BODY WAS A VESSEL THROUGH WHICH HE CHANNELED WHITE HOT ENERGY OF UNIVERSAL LOVE…THE LIFE FORCE OF GOD’S GLORY. HIS HAD EVERLASTING HOPE AND LOVE FOR MANKIND. HE WANTED EVERYONE TO SEE THIS CONNECTEDNESS, THIS BOND, THAT WE ALL SHARE WITH ONE ANOTHER, THE ANIMALS, THE TREES, EVERYTHING ON THE PLANET…THE MOON, STARS AND UNIVERSE. WE ARE ALL ONE.

I love you!

Jude

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EMPOWERED BY MICHAEL JACKSON

Posted on March 1, 2014 by jrling

“IT HAS BEEN MY PASSION FOR A LONG, LONG TIME TO DO SOMETHING FOR THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD.” Michael Jacksonhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu2pADzptiM

I am honored to devote this article to a project that has deeply touched my heart… HEAL YOUR WORLD BOOK FOR CHILDREN…Artwork and Wisdom from Children created by Heaven Leigh. To really grasp the enormity of this upcoming creation, I want to revisit Michael Jackson Truisms. Michael placed teachable moments everywhere in his artistry. Channeling the music of the spheres into twirling energy, luscious sound, and magical language, he has empowered a global humanitarian surge of ceaseless ripples emanating from diverse souls. Traversing flames of abuse which touched on every aspect of human injustice, Michael reached inside the hearts of masses of people depositing seeds that continue to germinate. The fires of injustice, greed, jealousy and racism illuminate the man’s character, burning a bond so strong that Fans actively search to continue his message almost five years after his passing. So, what truisms are honored in Heaven’s upcoming book? As always, I turn to Michael for the answer, saying, “What would Michael do?”

“Our children are the most beautiful, most sweet, most treasured of our creations. And yet, every minute at least 28 children die. Today our children are at risk of being killed by diseases and by the violence of war, guns, abuse and neglect. Children have few rights and no one to speak for them. They have no voice in our world. God and nature have blessed me with a voice. Now I want to use it to help children speak for themselves. I have founded the Heal the World Foundation to be the voice of the voiceless: the children.” Michael Jackson June 23, 1992

HEAL THE WORLD

The Foundation has three main goals:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PC49th-Jf0s

1. To make the safety, health and development of children the world’s highest priority.

2. To be the voice of the voiceless by focusing worldwide attention on the needs and rights of all children and by providing children with a forum to express their unique vision for healing the world.

3.To help create a world where children will live without violence, where children will be free of disease and have healthy lives, and where each generation will have the opportunity to grow into fully participating members of the world community.

November 30, 2000

G&P Foundation Award for work fighting cancer

“I’m honored, Mr. President Clinton, to receive this award in your presence and I thank you for the years of dedication and service you’ve rendered to the American people, you’ve been an incredible President and I love you. Cancer is the number one killer of children and it is only when we join together on evenings like this, that we can summon the courage and determination to stop it from ever robbing another child of the precious gift of life, or a parent of the joy of watching their child grow.” Michael Jacksonhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWPoVq7ruRQ

Washington, D.C. RFK Stadium Sold-out Eight Hour Marathon for “WHAT MORE CAN I GIVE” October 21, 2001 (a month after 9/11…proceeds to go to the victims of 9/11)

“Join hands and reach to the heavens…don’t do it because I’m asking you to, do it because it’s the right thing to do. Now I ask you for a moment of love and silence…And tonight we all stand united and ask WHAT MORE CAN I GIVE? and when we leave here tonight let us take this love and give it to all the people everywhere in every corner of the Earth…To the families of the victims of September 11th that are here with us tonight, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. You are in our hearts, you are in our thoughts and you are in our prayers.”

CHILDREN

DANCING THE DREAM

“What we need to learn from children isn’t childish. Being with them connects us to the deep wisdom of life, which is ever present and only asks to be lived. Now, when the world is so confused and its problems so complicated, I feel we need our children more than ever. Their natural wisdom points the way to solutions that lie waiting to be recognized within our own hearts.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuDsmqEp5GE

WISE LITTLE GIRL

DANCING THE DREAM

“She took my heart in her hands and made it weightless as a cotton puff, so that it was impossible for me to even begin to think…WHAT A TERRIBLE THING. All I saw was light and love. In their innocence, very young children know themselves to be light and love. If we will allow them, they can teach us to see ourselves the same way.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRzBgFg76fI

INNOCENCE

DANCING THE DREAM

“When you get right down to it, survival means seeing things the way they really are and responding. It means being open. And that’s what innocence is. It’s simple and trusting like a child, not judgmental and committed to one narrow point of view. If you are locked into a pattern of thinking and responding, your creativity gets blocked. You miss the freshness and magic of the moment. Learn to be innocent again, and that freshness never fades.”

As J.K. Rowlings said in Harry Potter, “It is not our abilities that show us who we truly are, but it’s our choices.” Michael Jackson had unparalleled abilities and talents…gifts he freely shared and continues to share. Greatness is measured by what we create and who we include…Michael created every minute he walked the planet and, everyone on earth was and is included.

Heaven Leigh’s choices for this new project reflect all of the Michael Truisms mentioned here. Of course, I could continue to write from Michael’s life for his teachings are unending, putting language to every human condition in need of help. Instead, I want to shine a light on the purposes for HEAL YOUR WORLD FOR CHILDREN. This is an opportunity for children to have that voice Michael spoke about…a chance to reach out to all the children around the world, sharing pictures and words that give their wisdom when searching for peace, harmony and love. It is an opportunity to donate to WORLD CHILD CANCER CHARITY helping children have a better life with their cancer. It is a project that empowers children as they offer us their wisdom… informing a better world. And, it gives adults hope in an effort to rediscover their own childhood. Michael said he wanted to help adults rediscover the child hiding in them…any adult that is open to that idea will find energy for it here.

David Nordahl, the artist that created masterpieces for Neverland Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, has graciously given a beautiful piece of his art to be used for the cover of this wonderful book. The piece Heaven has chosen is entitled, THE STORYTELLER. Michael opened his autobiography, MOONWALK, with this…”I’ve always wanted to be able to tell stories, you know, stories that came from my soul…” He did that with every facet of his artistry…from lyrics to songs, concepts and stories for his short films, choreography, as each of his dances were interpretations of the music. The children’s drawings and languages in this book will do the same. MICHAEL IS CERTAINLY SMILING!

My Dear Friends, I would encourage you to view each of the embedded videos in this article. They provide a richness for Michael’s truisms.

I am truly honored to have been able to write this article in an effort to reveal the magic that is taking place. I can hardly wait to see how it will all turn out. CONGRATULATIONS TO HEAVEN LEIGH AND LEANN FICKES AND DAVID NORDAHL. You are continuing Michael’s loving messages in a beautiful way. I love you.

And, Dear Friends…thank you for all YOU do to spread Michael’s message around the world. Each of us is sharing our gifts…and, as Michael said…”If you share your gift, and I share my gift, we can help others find their gifts.” WE ARE DOING THAT AS WE PAY MICHAEL AND HIS TEACHINGS FORWARD. I love you!

Jude http://bit.ly/WCCHealYourWorldChildren

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A LOVE AFFAIR FOR ALL TIME

Posted on February 16, 2014 by jrling

FEBRUARY 7, 1989 CLEVELAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Stockton, California

“Michael Jackson paid a visit to Cleveland Elementary School to see the children and families affected by the massacre which occurred on January 17, 1989. Michael had just returned from his BAD World Tour. He arrived at the school to comfort the surviving children by giving them confidence to view the world more positively after such a traumatic experience. He visited two children who were still hospitalized and met with other children in a nearby church. Fans gathered outside the hospital and church and school. Michael handed out gifts to each child and autographed pictures and, BAD “T” shirts and BAD cassettes. Patrick Prudy may have destroyed lives that day, but MJ’s presence helped bring more attention and compassion to the victims than anybody else on planet Earth could have done. Five children had been murdered and 39 injured. Michael visited every classroom, parents of the children at a nearby church, and the hospital. Eight-year-old Thahn Gran, who had lost a little brother during the massacre spoke about the affects of Michael’s visit. “I didn’t want to go back to school, but, Michael made it all right again. If he goes there, it must be safe. Michael is my friend and I’m very glad.” District Support Team

In addition, Michael visits the injured and parents of the dead children offering words of sympathy, signing plaster casts of wounded children while chatting and joking. Afterwards, Michael said to the children in the hospital, “You are very brave. When you are better, perhaps you will come and visit my private zoo.” Vice Mayor of Stockton, Ron Coale, had this to say about Michael’s goodwill visits, “Words cannot say how much turmoil this town has been through the past few months. Michael Jackson’s visit has helped us to try and overcome it a little.” MJJJustice Project

To be sure, we all have experienced momentary love, that love that seems to be real, but quickly evaporates in disappointment. The duration of time varies, but, the feelings of betrayal in the end remain the same. Love that stands the test of time is multilayered in its scope. If the initial racing of the heart and lump in the throat lessen, deeper levels appear that hold us in their soothing grip. The stronger the love, the more abundant the layers. “Michaelove”, Heaven Leigh’s beautiful word, is described by Michael as, “…the wonderful feeling you get when your soul is lifted up to become pure love.” When speaking of the Black Tradition, he said, “The Black Tradition is a tradition of soul which is a gift of love and joy…soul is the most precious thing you can share because you’re sharing yourself and the world needs that gift now more than ever.”

This love affair that Michael Jackson has with hundreds of millions of people is complicated in the extreme. E.M.Billeaudeaux describes it as “an intimate connection on so many levels.” Its ripple effect is endless. “Just when you think you know him, he gives you more!” That is how Elizabeth Taylor described it. David Nordahl said, “Sitting and talking to Michael, I would look into those eyes and I could see 1,000 miles.” Michael’s Dangerous Album cover art includes those eyes…”It was supposed to be like a vision into my soul, looking into my soul,” Michael said.

“I don’t worship Michael, but I do accept his divine significance in the history of our planet. I also love him with everything God has given me and recognize an eternal connection to him.”

MICHAEL IN MY LIFE

Elizabeth Michelle Billeaudeaux

Michael’s iconic vocal performance, both lead and background vocals, captured hearts all around the globe. His astounding ability to write breath-taking imaginative and unique musical compositions kept hearts beating wildly. Visually, his amazingly good looks, “his body was his instinctual canvas. He was a dancer to the core.” (Joseph Vogel) kept audiences wanting more and more. Quincy Jones said he was “unlimited musically.” His innovative, cutting edge storytelling both in vocal and visual performances have no equal. The world of his imagination had no boundaries. HE IS MAGIC, and WE CANNOT GET ENOUGH. Such lovely layers. So many reasons to be in love. YouTube numbers, record and DVD sales since Michael left us have been greater than any LIVING artist. When Michael walked the planet, he captured more awards, sold more records, garnered greater audiences than anyone else on the planet in the history of popular music.

We are so in love. But, there is more. Look back to the story we began with today. It is not a unique tale for Michael Jackson. It is an example of the massive number of visits Michael made to help rescue children, heal the planet, spread the love. His unlimited, unequalled humanitarian efforts are becoming legend, taking the place of adolescent myth-media disinformation. Now, we are getting to deeper layers of love. Looking at books compiled by Fans: IT’S ALL ABOUT LOVE, A LIFE FOR LOVE, (Brigitte Bloemen, Marian Dobler, Miram Lohr, Sonja Winterholler), MICHAEL JACKSON FOR THE SOUL( Lorette C. Luzajic), LETTERS TO MICHAEL, A COLLECTIVE GOODBYE (Alana m. Thomas) their numbers growing daily. We are now seeing THE NEW MEDIA coming to life as Fans express their love in so many ways. That soothing grip elevates the soul to become pure love.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj3MfUR35CM&list=RD-oCCnxBos10

“WHAT IS FOR CERTAIN IS THAT HE DESERVES MORE FROM THIS WORLD. I AM STANDING UP FOR HIM, AS MANY OTHERS ARE, REGARDLESS OF ANY AND ALL BACKLASH. I BELIEVE THAT ONE DAY THERE WILL BE AN ABUNDANCE OF BOOKS AVAILABLE, DETAILING COUNTLESS STORIES OF HIS DISCIPLES AND SOLDIERS OF LOVE AND THEIR PERSONAL CONNECTIONS TO MY SWEET MICHAEL…OUR SWEET MICHAEL.”

E.M. Billeaudeaux

You see, Fans around the world have fallen in love with Michael Jackson’s multilayered talents and character and humanity. We are drawn to a life lived with the intention to heal the planet with unconditional love. Our souls have been awakened like never before. It is not a passive kind of love. We are actively loving. And, that love transfers its energy to a world greatly in need.

WILL YOU BE THERE?

Michael Jackson

Hold me like the river Jordan

And I will then say to thee

You are my friend

Carry me like you are my brother

Love me like a mother

Will you be there?

When weary tell me will you hold me?

When wrong will you mold me?

When lost will you find me?

But they told me a man should be faithful

And walk when unable

And fight till the end

But I’m only human

Everyone’s trying to control me

Seems that the world’s got a role for me

I’m so confused

Will you show to me

You’ll be there for me

And care enough to bear me?

Hold me, show me

Lay your head lowly

Gently and boldly

Carry me there

I’m only humanhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiwqxWT4CKw

The depth of being in love is carried in Michael’s words. An unbreakable bond has been formed. Millions of hands join together and stretch the length and width of this planet in his name.

TRUTH SEEKER…SPEAK TRUTH-HEALING COMMUNICATIONS

ANGEL MICHAEL ORACLES

Channeled by HEAVEN LEIGH

Illustrations by MIMI O’GARREN

“I’m going to give you some amazing secrets that hide in my songs for all to hear. And they are not really secrets. They may be things that you have forgotten, but they live within your heart. I want to say this too, to those who are hearing my voice and feeling compelled to write it out-it’s me. I write through loving, sweet, otherwise shy ones. I compel you to open up and reach out to share my message. And for those who don’t feel the compulsion to write-are you feeling driven to help others, heal the world by giving to charities? Those who may have never felt this before are doing this now to honor me. I am deeply touched that I have this effect on you.”

“THOUGH WE’RE FAR APART, YOU ARE ALWAYS IN MY HEART…YOU ARE NOT ALONE.” Michael Jackson

And so, My Dear Friends, this magical love affair moves toward its sixth decade. It takes on many beautiful faces, a variety of gifts and is strengthened by souls lifted up to pure love. Its power comes from Michael. He has lovingly given the blueprint for change. He has provided the outline. We will paint in the colors.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlpU08DkJ7g

I love you more.

Jude

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A ROLE MODEL FOR A LIFETIME…MICHAEL JACKSON

Posted on October 5, 2013 by jrling

“SO…HOW DO I COPE WITH THE LATEST INJUSTICE TO MICHAEL?”
(I TURN TO MICHAEL FOR THE ANSWER.)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PC49th-Jf0s

LOOK AGAIN, BABY SEAL

DANCING THE DREAM BY MICHAEL JACKSON

One of the most touching nature photographs is of a baby seal lying on the ice alone. I’m sure you have seen it – the picture seems to be all eyes, the trusting dark eyes of a small animal gazing up at the camera and into your heart. When I first looked at them, the eyes asked, “Are you going to hurt me?” I knew the answer was yes, because thousands of baby seals were being killed every year.

Many people were touched by one baby seal’s helplessness. They gave money to save the seals, and public awareness started to shift. As I returned to the picture, those two wide eyes began to say something different. Now they asked, “Do you know me?” This time I didn’t feel so much heartache as when I felt the violence man inflicts upon animals. But I realized that there was still a big gap. How much did I really know about life on earth? What responsibility did I feel for creatures outside my little space? How can I lead my life so that every cell of living matter was also benefited?

Everyone who began to wonder about these things found, I think, that their feelings were shifting away from fear toward more closeness with life as a whole. The beauty and wonder of life began to seem very personal; the possibility of making the planet a garden for all of us to grow in began to dawn. I looked into the eyes of the baby seal, and for the first time they smiled. “Thank you,” they said. “You have given me hope.”

Is that enough? Hope is such a beautiful word, but it often seems very fragile. Life is still being needlessly hurt and destroyed. The image of one baby seal alone on the ice or baby girl orphaned in war is still frightening in its helplessness. I realized that nothing would finally save life on earth but trust in life itself, in its power to heal, in its ability to survive our mistakes and welcome us back when we learn to correct those mistakes.

With these thoughts in my heart, I looked at the picture again. The seal’s eyes seemed much deeper now, and I saw something in them that I had missed before: unconquerable strength. “You have not hurt me,” they said. “I am not one baby alone. I am life, and life can never be killed. It is the power that brought me from the emptiness of space; it cared for me and nourished my existence against all dangers. I am safe because I am that power. And so are you. Be with me, and let us feel the power of life together, as one creature here on earth.

Baby seal, forgive us. Look at us again and again to see how we are doing. Those men who raise their clubs over you are also fathers and brothers and sons. They have loved and cared for others. One day they will extend that love to you. Be sure of it and trust…Michael Jackson

I have read that parable many times, and with each reading, its wisdom becomes clearer. Like everything Michael has created, be it lyrics to a song, poetry, prose, compositions, storytelling, his very life, there are many layers to peal away. Instinctively, I recognize the metaphorical nature of this story. Reaching deep inside the words, I see that the baby seal is Michael. Decades have seen forces making Michael a victim of human prejudices and hatred and shame. Human beings have looked into Michael’s eyes and come away with interpretations of what they saw there. The cynical, the greedy, those desperately wanting fame and fortune have all tried to kill and take away the “fruits” of that kill. The inspired have taken away a renewed spirit and focus in their lives. And, those who found love have simply become more loving. On the surface, it is obvious that Michael is a voice for the voiceless…nature and the very planet upon which we live. But, he is making a deeper plea…a plea for life…all life…a plea for mankind to come together as one loving creature…no living thing left out. The deeper we go into the words, the more we see that Michael is also making a plea for those marginalized and minimized, those undeservedly killed by words instead of clubs. And, amazingly, he is offering an answer…LIFE. Life is the indestructible power which extends love and caring to all. In the story, the baby seal forgives those who sought to destroy it remembering that they have lived and loved. Although Michael says that hope is very fragile, the parable ends with it. When we think of the travails that Michael was forced to endure, his words told us that he never stopped hoping…he never stopped forgiving and he never, ever stopped loving.

Of course, you can see why I turn to Michael when the weight of this unjust world takes its toll on my heart. Michael’s words move me like no other’s…and, I am humbled by his life’s story…his strength and passion for making the world a better place forbids me giving up. I feel a renewed gratitude being gifted volumes of his creations. Whenever I see his beautiful face, a smile replaces my tears. And, I go on.

Each day of this now 60-month exquisite journey, I, of course, have discovered others of Michael’s Army Of Love. I will end with an unexpected Michaeler…a member of the civil trial jury. Her reflections echo what all who knew Michael have said and I want to quote it because in PAYS MICHAEL FORWARD…

“JUST LIKE OUR JURY FOREMAN, I WENT INTO THIS TRIAL ABOUT AS NEUTRAL AS ONE COULD BE TOWARDS MICHAEL JACKSON. I WAS 7 WHEN THRILLER CAME OUT SO I GREW UP WITH HIS MUSIC AND LOVED IT, BUT I KNEW VERY LITTLE ABOUT HIS LIFE OTHER THAN WHAT I’D SEEN IN THE MEDIA AND I HONESTLY HAD NO STRONG FEELINGS ABOUT HIM AS A PERSON EITHER WAY. I WALK OUT OF HIS TRIAL COMPLETELY UNDERSTANDING WHY HE HAS SO MANY FANS WHO PRACTICALLY DEIFY HIM. WHO ARE SO ATTRACTED TO HIS KIND SPIRIT, HUGE HEART, GENTLE NATURE, LOVE FOR HIS CHILDREN AND HIS MOTHER. I TOTALLY GET IT NOW.

EVERY SINGLE WITNESS QUESTIONED ABOUT WHETHER THEY THOUGHT MJ WAS A GOOD FATHER (AND, ALMOST EVERYONE WHO KNEW HIM CLOSELY WAS ASKED) SANG ENDLESS PRAISES ABOUT HIS LOVE OF HIS KIDS. IF PRINCE’S TESTIMONY IS ANY INDICATION, MJ WAS DEFINITELY A GREAT FATHER. THE KID IS BRIGHT, INTELLIGENT, CARING, HAS A GREAT CHARACTER AND A GREAT PERSONALITY AND I TRULY BELIEVE MJ DID A PHENOMENAL JOB RAISING HIM IN THE FEW YEARS HE WAS ABLE TO. HONESTLY, EVERY SINGLE JUROR CAME AWAY FEELING VERY POSITIVE ABOUT MICHAEL AS A PERSON AND A FATHER.

I KNOW THERE WAS CONCERN ABOUT MJ’S IMAGE BEING HURT BECAUSE OF THIS TRIAL, AND MAYBE TO OUTSIDE VIEWERS IT WAS BECAUSE OF SOME OF THE DETAILS THAT CAME OUT. BUT, FOR US IN THE JURY IN THAT COURTROOM FOR ALL THOSE MONTHS, WE JUST GREW MORE AND MORE FOND OF HIM DURING THE COURSE OF THE TRIAL.”

I have always said that IF YOU TAKE THE TIME TO KNOW MICHAEL, you cannot help but fall in love. It simply isn’t possible.

Anyone who wonders about Michael Jackson as a role model needs only to take time to learn about the man.

Those of us who have been gifted that privilege would describe him as A ROLE MODEL OF A LIFETIME.

And, so, my dear friends, I will leave you today with a beautiful message I received from my husband,Tom, just last night. “BE WITH ME…LET US FEEL THE POWER OF LIFE TOGETHER AS ONE CREATURE HERE ON EARTH.” Michael Jackson

I know that life is difficult for you right now and you are trying to find your way through the darkness. Sometimes we just need to be “where we are” for awhile…feeling the feelings and working our way through the struggles. I want you to know that my heart is with you…and even though I want to do or say something to make a difference, I realize there is a part of one’s journey that must be walked alone. I know that soon you will find your way to the other side…where you will see the bright light that has been shining for you all along. Children of the Inner Light

I am working toward Michael’s light…come with me.

IT’S ALL FOR LOVE

JUDE

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A COLLECTIVE AWAKENING

Posted on July 14, 2013 by jrling

MAGICAL CHILD

Once there was a child and he was free

Deep inside, he felt the laughter

The mirth and play of nature’s glee

He was not troubled by thoughts of hereafter

Beauty, love was all he’d see

He knew his power was the power of God

He was so sure, they considered him odd

This power of innocence, of compassion, of light

Threatened the priests and created a fright

In endless ways they sought to dismantle

This mysterious force which they could not handle

In endless ways they tried to destroy

His simple trust, his boundless joy

His invincible armor was a shield of bliss

Nothing could touch it, no venom, no hiss

The child remained in a state of grace

He wasn’t confined in time or place

In Technicolor dreams, he frolicked and played

While acting his part, in Eternity he stayed

Soothsayers came and fortunes were told

Some were vehement, others were bold

In denouncing this child, this perplexing creature

With the rest of the world he shared no feature

Is he real? He is so strange

His unpredictable nature knows no range

He puzzles us so, is he straight?

What’s his destiny? What’s his fate?

And while they whispered and conspired

Through endless rumors to get him tired

To kill his wonder, trample him near

Burn his courage, fuel his fear

The child remained just simple, sincere

All he wanted was the mountain high

Color the clouds, paint the sky

Beyond these boundaries, he wanted to fly

In nature’s scheme, never to die.

Don’t stop this child, he’s the father of man

Don’t cross his way, he’s part of the plan

I am that Child, but so are you

You’ve just forgotten, just lost the clue

Inside your heart sits a Seer

Between his thoughts, he can hear

A melody simple but wondrously clear

The music of life so precious, so dear.

If you could for one moment know

This spark of creation, this exquisite glow

You would come and dance with me

Kindle this fire so we could see

All the children of the Earth

Weave their magic and give new birth

To a world of freedom with no pain

A world of joy, much more sane

Deep inside, you know it’s true

Just find that child, it’s hiding in you.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-8TQADs4bI&feature=related

Michael Jackson

DANCING THE DREAM 1992

Innocence of spirit, looking at the world unencumbered by color, race, religion, borders or boundaries freed Michael’s imagination which was limitless. Present every day of his life was magic, wonder and mystery. The energy of Michael’s creative spirit could not be denied or encumbered by low-ceiling imaginations. Those whose world-view is limited by distrust, cynicism, their minds unable to climb out of the gutter, or who look to make a quick dollar or their five minutes of fame possess a blindness of the soul. Limited and without vision, they seek to find fault with, and even try to destroy that which they are incapable of understanding. Or, they simply want to extort. It is all wrapped up in an evil that will not let go. When you sell your soul to the devil there is no turning back. For all of these people, Michael was, and remains today, a target…and, I believe, a threat. Wrapped all around this is RACISM.

And so, who are these people? Many are tasked with seeking out and delivering truth to a waiting public. At least, I would think that is what they were trained to do. If they ever did aspire to that lofty goal, they have failed astronomically. Journalism today is now spelled TABLOID. It is yellow and is unmistakably vomit. They spew it and an undiscriminating public lap it up. Truth be damned. I watched Diane Sawyer say to Michael, “these questions are not why I have spent my life being a serious journalist,” but she went ahead anyway and asked Michael if he and Lisa Marie were having sexual relations. One would expect the likes of Oprah, someone who earns her living on gossip, judging others and passing her version of a sentence to ask such a question…as she did when she said to Michael, “Are you a virgin?”…but, we would hope for more from the three major networks. But, our hope is never going to be reality. Twenty-four hour “news” machines, rather than report news, make it up to fill time. They gleefully DECIDE who is a “darling” and who is a “demon”. “You tell a lie often enough and people believe it.” Michael Jackson. If I were to credit them with anything it would be their adept skill at BRAINWASHING. At that, they have no peer. ABC. NBC and CBS follow their lead. Disrespect and sarcasm…sensationalism and slander are the name of the game. And, believe me, a game it is with people’s lives at stake. To perpetuate their questionable existence, they can never admit to mistake or change their direction. Lies lead to bigger lies. Michael Jackson is the ultimate unicorn…the beautiful, innocent, unparalleled talent and humanitarian whose life’s blood they drink. To up the ante of evil works…these despicable entities now go after Paris, Prince and Blanket as well. Even more sickening, they pretend to have these children’s best interests at heart. DON’T YOU BELIEVE IT! When you sell your soul to the devil, no life is sacred.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQFwF5rYafg

And so, we move to individuals and companies, namely AEG and Wade Robson. When the civil trial began, AEG requested that Michael’s molestation trial be included in the proceedings. They were denied. During opening arguments, AEG attorneys threatened that the trial would get bloody…meaning, bloody Michael. Amazingly, Wade Robson filed his claim of molestation charges at the same time. It seems he decided during sessions with a psychiatrist that either he had repressed memory syndrome or he now realized he needed to cleanse himself. Being on AEG payroll had nothing to do with it. Of course, the tabloids happily joined in with their scoop using outdated and disproved FBI information. And, the Today Show was more than happy to come on board with the FIRST interview of Robson. To add to the horror, Conrad Murray intimated during HIS national phone interview on CNN that IF he were to testify in the civil trial, he would tell things that both the Jackson family and fans would not like to hear. Bottom line…Robson, AEG and Murray CAN SAY ANYTHING THEY LIKE AND THE MEDIA WILL HAPPILY AIR IT AS FACT. Once again, Michael is the object of high-tech lynching. Once again, the public is fed on a diet of lies and many believe it all.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQFwF5rYafg

Now, let’s add the internet. Robson and his family have been busy. Not only are they putting out their lies, but, they are begging anyone who thinks they were molested by Michael to come forward. Sound familiar? That is exactly what Tom Sneddon did for years when Michael was alive. HE GOT NOTHING. But, it has taken years to show Michael’s truth. JUST HOW MUCH CAN ONE LIFE WITHSTAND. HOW MANY BATTLES CAN ONE FAMILY WAGE.

When you think about it, it is a perfect plan. Keep everyone busy attacking, believing or defending and there is no time to celebrate the life and the music…the humanitarian efforts and the stunning legacy.

Aw, but that is where evil is thwarted. MICHAEL JACKSON FANS ARE ACTIVISTS AND RIGOROUSLY JOIN IN MICHAEL’S ARMY OF LOVE. We all know that the more you learn about Michael, the more there is to love. AND LOVE WE DO. People who are not fans cannot understand the loyalty. Once again, low-ceiling imaginations can only comprehend fanatic or idol-worship. Ordinary celebrities ATTRACT fans all the time. The difference is…Michael EARNED his fans’ loyalty time and time again because Michael truly LOVED his fans. This love was real. He often described it as a cause and effect. Michael needed his fans and his fans needed him. The love is mutual and strong. His messages in music and dance and performance always were about love. We have seen him give love to multitudes. We have seen him time and time again give of himself and all he had to help children all over the world. He was committed to making the world a better place. It was real…he was real. As I said, he earned the love of millions every day of his life. Media cannot stand to see this loyalty, never, ever report anything about it. When 11,437 red roses were placed at Forest Lawn on June 25, 2013, the press reported about Michael’s drug addictions. No where in the press did we read about the enormous success the Immortal Tour has been. No where in the press is there mention of the many, many charities inspired by Michael. No where in the press is mentioned all the tributes and celebrations globally on Michael’s birthday. But, every chance they get drug addiction, being broke, plastic surgeries, child molestation charges, strange and weird are mentioned. No where do we hear INNOCENT OF ALL CHARGES…no where do we hear billionaire…most successful performer ever. How any other celebrities parentage is questioned? How many other celebs are asked about their sexual relations? How many other celebs have a disease made a joke? Who else has their autopsy and body paraded on the Discovery Channel or a centerfold in a rag sheet? Who else is called the equivalent of the “N” word over and over again and no one screams RACIST? (MAKE NO MISTAKE…WACKO JACKO IS AN “N” WORD JUST FOR MICHAEL.) Who else has their children made the subject of every talk show and so-called news network?

Michael Jackson is the most beloved and most disrespected artist of our time. That is why his Fans will not rest until his name is cleared and he and his children receive justice. We can feel his pain. When people say to me that it doesn’t matter…you cannot be hurt once you’re gone, I say…UNTRUE. Michael worked and gave every ounce of blood, sweat and God-given talent for his FANS and for the planet. His legacy is important to him and to his children and his beloved mother. IT MUST BE PROTECTED.

I do join the legions of people around the globe in MAJORLOVEPRAYER every day. I try so very hard to see the light and feel the glow of world love inspired by Michael. Every time I listen to Michael’s wonderful catalog or watch a spectacular performance or listen to a speech or see him kneel down beside a dying child, I feel my heart swell. Each time I write a check to try to help heal the world, I feel Michael inside me. I have learned so much, I am a better person for knowing Michael. I feel gratitude for that. Each time I connect with another FAN, I feel that overwhelming love and collective energy. All of this gives me hope and helps me to go on when the world seems dark. I know that AEG, Conrad Murray and Wade Robson will not change, will not stop because they are hurting Paris, Prince and Blanket, will not realize that they are the reason Paris decided she didn’t want to live in a world of betrayal and lies. I have prayed for a change, prayed that the media, too, will grow a conscience…but, in four years, it hasn’t happened and I’ve given up hope that it ever will.

If I am to remember the hope and inspiration that Michael has given me, then I must remember his bravery as he walked into court every day, his bravery as he listened to horrific lies, his faith in God as he saw the media gleefully open him up like a bag of birdseed. He never gave up, he never lost his faith, he never stopped being a loving father, he never stopped creating, he never stopped giving. If he could do that, then, I must.

And so, Dear Friends, I keep writing. I keep loving Michael with all my heart. And, yes, I often cry. But, when I watch Michael sing and dance and smile, I wipe away my tears and join in the dance.

Jude

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PAYING MICHAEL FORWARD…I You WE

Posted on April 28, 2013 by jrling

“When you want to be close to me, just listen to my music. The love is stored there and will never die.” Michael Jackson

Holding onto what I know to be true is a slippery slope. The twists and turns, the sliding and falling flat can leave scars of doubt. And, every now and then, deciding to just keep it simple and stay down crosses my mind. But, there is this nagging thought that creeps into my defeat and won’t let go. LOVE! The most beautiful four-letter word in the English language. It is the common thread in everything. I can’t let it go. My hand keeps reaching out to hold onto it.

Looking back on this week in spring, it has been a struggle to hold onto what I know…not because it isn’t the truth…but, because I have been weakened thinking about what is ahead. The impending extortionist accusatons and the enormity of information I have gathered detailing the horrors done to Michael by the media in the last two decades…weakens me…such a barage of meanness. Although the most recent NEWSWEEK magazine TRIBUTE is a step forward…myth crystalizing is present. Once again, Michael’s artistry, vision and sexuality are targeted. Hatred is powerful. It is high-pitched and repetitive. And, it is seductive. You are drawn in by self-righteous words and psychoanalytical jargon. Before you know it, you have been pulled under. You kick and scream hoping someone is listening to your pain. “DON’T IT MAKE YOU WANNA SCREAM!” I absolutely know I do not possess the bravery that Michael had…his ability to create astounding music while being hit upon by literally thousands of so-called journalists. He said he took the negative energy around him and turned it into a creation…a poem or a lyric or a parable. I am continually strengthened by his journey, his choices, his determination, his faith in God and his love for people and care for children and the planet.

And so, this evening, I turn to Michael’s words for strength. I turn to his life’s work…and, I am empowered by the millions of FANS around the world who are doing the same. Because, this week, I have discovered so many voices to help me feel stronger… the lovely people who have discovered this blog and are learning what I have learned. And, of course, God.

So, let me share some of Michael’s words. As I write them, I feel better. I am sending them to you to do the same. Together We can find our way…

PAYING MICHAEL FORWARD http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClaDyf_Y-24

“I said you had to do it. You said you didn’t want to. We talked about it, and we agreed that maybe I could help.

I said you were wrong. You insisted you were right. We held each other’s hand, and right and wrong disappeared.

I began crying. You began crying. We embraced, and between us grew a flower of peace.

How I love this mystery called We! Where does it come from, out of thin air? I thought about this mystery, and I realized something: We must be love’s favorite child, because until I reach out for you, We is not even there. It arrives on the wings of tenderness; it speaks through our silent understanding. When I laugh at myself it smiles. When I forgive you, it dances in jubilation.

So We is not a choice anymore, not if you and I want to grow with one another. We unites us, increases our strength; it picks up our burden when you and I are ready to let it fall. The truth is that you and I would have given up long ago, but We won’t let us. It is too wise. ‘Look into your hearts,’ it says. ‘What do you see? Not you and I, but only We.'” Michael Jackson DANCING THE DREAM 1992

“Michael Jackson’s art transcended every way that human beings have thought of to separate themselves and then healed those divisions, at least at the instant that we all shared his music as the globally understood grammar of hope. His language was the language of joy and love.” Michael Eric Dyson Ebony Magazine

BERLIN 1989

THEY HATED THE WALL, BUT WHAT COULD THEY DO? IT WAS TOO STRONG TO BREAK THROUGH.

THEY FEARED THE WALL, BUT DIDN’T THAT MAKE SENSE? MANY WHO TRIED TO CLIMB OVER IT WERE KILLED.

THEY DISTRUSTED THE WALL, BUT WHO WOULDN’T? THEIR ENEMIES REFUSED TO TEAR DOWN ONE BRICK, NO MATTER HOW LONG THE PEACE TALKS DRAGGED ON.

THE WALL LAUGHED GRIMLY. “I’M TEACHING YOU A GOOD LESSON,” IT BOASTED. “IF YOU WANT TO BUILD FOR ETERNITY, DON’T BOTHER WITH STONES. HATRED, FEAR, AND DISTRUST ARE SO MUCH STRONGER.”

THEY KNEW THE WALL WAS RIGHT, AND THEY ALMOST GAVE UP. ONLY ONE THING STOPPED THEM. THEY REMEMBERED WHO WAS ON THE OTHER SIDE. GRANDMOTHER, COUSIN, SISTER, WIFE. BELOVED FACES THAT YEARNED TO BE SEEN.

“WHAT’S HAPPENING?” THE WALL ASKED, TREMBLING. WITHOUT KNOWING WHAT THEY DID, THEY WERE LOOKING THROUGH THE WALL, TRYING TO FIND THEIR DEAR ONES. SILENTLY, FROM ONE PERSON TO ANOTHER, LOVE KEPT UP ITS INVISIBLE WORK.

“STOP IT!” THE WALL SHRIEKED. “I’M FALLING APART.” BUT IT WAS TOO LATE. A MILLION HEARTS HAD FOUND EACH OTHER. THE WALL HAD FALLEN BEFORE IT CAME DOWN. Michael Jackson DANCING THE DREAM 1992

“I have wonderful memories of my visits to Germany. Coming back to Berlin, a city so full of energy…it’s very special to me. Berlin, I love you! Berlin, ich liebe dich!

September 11th has changed our world. Not long ago, the Berlin Wall came down. But, recently, new walls have been built. 1989, people of Germany said…”wir sind ein volk. We are one nation.”

We are Germans. We are Armenians, French, Italian, Russian, American, Asian, African and many other nationalities. We are Christians, Jewish, Muslims and Hindu. We are black and we are white. We are a community of so many differences, so complex and yet, so simple. We do not need to have war.” taken from Michael Jackson’s acceptance speech…Bambi Pop Star of the Millenium 2002

“Sadly, sadly, we live in a state of fear. Every day we hear of war…on the news, on the radio and television and in the newspapers…always war. We hear of nations hurting each other, of neighbors hurting each other, of families hurting each other and of children killing each other. We must learn to live and love each other before it’s too late. WE HAVE TO STOP THE PREJUDICE. WE HAVE TO STOP THE HATING. WE HAVE TO STOP LIVING IN FEAR OF OUR OWN NEIGHBORS.” Michael Jackson…taken from a speech in Exeter 2002

Michael felt so very strongly about the state of the world. Because he lived his life on a world stage, he took every opportunity to speak out for justice and peace and love. “When I feel something is not right, I have to speak up. I know most people don’t think of me as tough or strong-willed, but that’s because they don’t know me.” MJ

That strength and determination serves as a role-model for so many around this world. It offers a path that many have chosen to follow. I am reminded of something really lovely that I discovered researching one day…It was taken from the L.A. Times on Michael’s 54th birthday, August 29, 2012. “Your presence in this world was a gift. Today, on your birthday, we honor you, keeping alive your legacy for all time. Loving and missing you, Your Global Family from…(a full-page of the newspaper)

USA

GREECE

ROMANIA

ITALY

GERMANY

HONG KONG

NIGERIA

JAPAN

AUSTRIA

POLAND

FRANCE

SPAIN

TRINIDAD

TABAGO

ARGENTINA

IRAN

ARMENIA

ENGLAND

BRAZIL

TAIWAN

CANADA

SWEDEN

PUERTO RICO

SWITZERLAND

MEXICO

PORTUGAL

SCOTLAND

DENMARK

NETHERLANDS

RUSSIA

BULGARIA

When my strength begins to fade and I become over-whelmed by injustice, I turn to Michael’s words, his music, his love for the world…and, I connect with all the loving people around this planet who are working so hard and giving so much to make change. And, I say, THANK YOU. And, I dream of the day when a TRIBUTE magazine finishes with an article detailing Michael’s humanitarian efforts…I even volunteer to write it! Michael never aimed low…neither should we. I love you!

Jude

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METAPHOR

Posted on February 27, 2013 by jrling

“MAKE LOVE YOUR WEAPON AGAINST ANY EVIL.” MJ

It occurred to me, as I walked one lovely spring morning, that seasonal changes living in northern Minnesota are very like the musical compositions that fill my senses with elation and beauty. The ability to create melodies and harmonies in arrangements that feel as if the sound is being gently pulled from deep inside the soul, moving towards the light. That is but one of the multitude of gifts coming from the musical genius that is Michael Jackson.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZc6VZmbkJU

metaphor: the application of a word or phrase to an object to suggest comparison with another object or concept

While drinking from dawn’s nectar, I realized the metaphor for northern spring. Spring comes in tiny morsels which float on the winds. Days dawn earlier. Birdsong moves from brief tunes to full-throated love song. Cardinals begin the morning romance. Although small in stature, their sound is symphonic.

It’s the gradualness of these melodic measures that excites. Each part is cause for celebration. Temperatures climb and summer attire appears. Nothing is taken for granted…words from Michael’s lips. Allow the music to build, appreciate each layer as the song is painted with loving brushstrokes. “We will never fail if we create with love.” MJ

In the winter of my years, I understand. Greeting each season with love in my heart and taking none of it for granted. I enjoy the slowness of ecstasy. “Being in the moment, I will always have music.” MJ

Learning, listening, thinking, staying open, creating, appreciating, staying humble, being part of a global community seeking to heal the world with love. The composition is never complete. Michael has taught me that. “I am always hearing what is missing.” MJ My composition is far from complete. Life is drawn measure by measure. The more I think about it, the more convinced I am. Michael’s vision, his work, his life stand as a metaphor for humanity…how to live in love.

To say he inspires me…to say that I learn more about living each day……to say that I learn more about myself, is to speak the truth. Michael has always been, and remains today, the truth. This legacy extends to all four corners of the earth…the global community. I am part of it. With a full heart, I harness this energy to share whenever and wherever I can. METAPHOR. LEGACY. THE DREAM CONTINUES…

DANCING THE DREAM 1992

CONSCIOUSNESS EXPRESSES ITSELF THROUGH CREATION. THIS WORLD WE LIVE IN IS THE DANCE OF THE CREATOR. DANCERS COME AND GO IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE BUT THE DANCE LIVES ON. ON MANY AN OCCASION WHEN I’M DANCING, I’VE FELT TOUCHED BY SOMETHING SACRED. IN THOSE MOMENTS I’VE FELT MY SPIRIT SOAR AND BECOME ONE WITH EVERYTHING THAT EXISTS. I BECOME THE STARS AND THE MOON. I BECOME THE LOVER AND THE BELOVED. I BECOME THE VICTOR AND THE VANQUISHED. I BECOME THE MASTER AND THE SLAVE. I BECOME THE SINGER AND THE SONG. I BECOME THE KNOWER AND THE KNOWN. I KEEP ON DANCING AND THEN, IT IS THE ETERNAL DANCE OF THE CREATION. THE CREATOR AND CREATION MERGE INTO ONE WHOLENESS OF JOY. I KEEP ON DANCING AND DANCING…….AND DANCING, UNTIL THERE IS ONLY……THE DANCE. Michael Jackson

This week, we will celebrate springtime. I plan to dance and sing and feel touched by creation. I hope you will enjoy Michael’s message. “Remember, it’s all meant to be play…keep to your task but dance while you do it.” MJ Happy Spring!

Jude

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Michael Jackson Chosen Voices

MY INSPIRATION AND MY HOPE

Tag Archives: Dancing the Dream

STORY HERO

“TRAVEL IN THE LIGHT, MICHAEL.”

“YOU GAVE ME HOPE WHEN ALL HOPE WAS LOST”

HOW THE STORY ENDS

MAESTRO

MELTING INTO THE MUSIC

“WINGS WITHOUT ME” Michael Jackson

EMPOWERED BY MICHAEL JACKSON

A LOVE AFFAIR FOR ALL TIME

A ROLE MODEL FOR A LIFETIME…MICHAEL JACKSON

A COLLECTIVE AWAKENING

PAYING MICHAEL FORWARD…I You WE

METAPHOR