Millions inspired by Michael

T he world cried when we learned of the sudden death of Michael Jackson. He was a magical gift most people appreciated. Unfortunately most of the focus has been on his death. He moved like no other, a cosmic whirlwind from the heavens.

Michael sang like no other, connecting with our hearts and souls. None of us is perfect: we all have our own quirks and faults. But we also have amazing talents and gifts as well: that is what is known as our personality.

Life isn't a competition: it's a gift to be cherished each day. And Michael really enjoyed life even though he was hounded constantly. The first 10 minutes of the news each night features the horrible, unbelievable things adults do to each other. So who can blame Michael for wanting to spend time with children, who are pure and honest? Look at Michael's life, at what he actually did, not the unproven things he was accused of. Bad people are the ones who murder innocent families, steal money from those who really need it, and bulldoze graves for their own greed.

Just don't defile this amazing father to three children, a loving son and brother, who made this world much easier for us to cope with. He was a very trusting soul, and that, unfortunately may have cost him his dear life.

He loved to smile, was still fascinated by rainbows, adored children and was a superior father. He never physically abused or used profanity toward the press who hounded him, some of whom accused him of horrific acts, because that was the real Michael Jackson. So kiss your children and hug a friend; cherish love and suppress hate. That is what Michael taught me and the world!

No one realized how much time he spent with his children because that is normal and beautiful, a light Michael was seldom portrayed in by the media. He was forced to be private and semireclusive. No charges were ever proven because they didn't happen: it was hyperbole fueled by insatiable tabloids and news agencies. There will never be another talent like him. We were lucky to see him entertain and embrace us.

I always felt a cosmic connection to Michael and considered him one of my best friends, though we never met. We need to learn from his example and change for the better. Cherish every moment with your family, friends and strangers, and you will make this world a better place for you and for me: Michael's dream. You have to be really passionate about some things in your life. People are beautiful if you are looking for beauty. Just take time to look. Don't worry about what other people think when it comes to expressing yourself the way you want to.

I hope we all have learned something by the tragic loss of this genuine, smiling soul. Like never hold a grudge, or go to bed angry, or be afraid to tell everyone in your life that you love them.

Like Michael, be who you want to be, who you were born to be: not what society dictates what you must be. And listen to Michael's music and go ahead and dance a little bit: you''ll be surprised how much happier you will feel. Michael, you moonwalk across the clouds now, and one night I heard a choir of angels singing, each wearing one sparkling glove!

To quote Michael: "Born to amuse, to inspire, to delight: here one day, gone one night ... gone too soon." If you can positively inspire just one person in your life, that's absolutely amazing. If you can positively inspire millions of lives, that's ... Michael Jackson! Rest in eternal peace, my friend.

Michael Welsh is a Romeoville resident.