I’ve been thinking a lot about the recent passing of the iconic legend Michael Jackson and decided to dedicate this week’s QOTW to him. I recently heard on an evening news story that Michael could not ever enjoy “being outside” since he had tin foil and dark plastic covering all windows everywhere he went. He tried to protect his children by isolating them on his ranch and putting dark masks on them when going out. He did not ever really get to “see” this world except from behind dark glasses. Living in the beauty that is Colorado, this astounds me. To have to sacrifice God’s beauty and all that is around us for fame and fortune had to have been tough. I remember back in the 5th grade when I auditioned for a talent show at school and my talent was lip syncing “Smooth Criminal” and dancing with my friends a la MJ. The music excited me, but I never really stopped to think about the sacrifices he made to create that music for me. We won first place- a roller skating party for 18 of our friends! Michael won fame and a ton of Grammys but with it came a price.
So Michael Jackson influenced me as a person, but I suppose as an educator too. He taught me that music often has a power beyond our control. And he taught me to appreciate what I often take for granted. I have seen many “RIP” comments about MJ, but I don’t believe he is resting. Michael is now truly living, without fear of paparazzi, unsurmounting debt and  tabloid gossip, getting to create music that honors and glorifies our Creator with every other “normal” person who has accepted Christ as their Savior. And I am so excited that one day I will having the honor of meeting him, since I never got the chance in this lifetime.   Here’s the quote:

The greatest education in the world is watching the masters at work. ~Michael Jackson