Michael Jackson Dies From Cardiac Arrest
I just heard the tragic news that Michael Jackson died and had a cardiac arrest. This is a very sad day for millions around the world.
I was fortunate to have met many members of the Jackson family and I have always had great admiration for what each member of the family has accomplished.
My deepest condolences go out to Kate & Joe Jackson and the entire Jackson family!
The one thing I dread is having a son or daughter pass away before I do. My stepmother has survived 2 of her children, my half brothers, and it was terrible to see her suffering as we laid to rest her sons.
I first met Joe Jackson and Jermaine Jackson at their Encino home way back in the early 1990’s, introduced to me by a great friend, Majestic Magnificent (yes that’s his real name). We were working on a deal that involved the Jackson family and it was very exciting to actually be in the home where the Jackson 5 made their career.
I will never forget that day! There I was in the home of the biggest entertainers that ever lived. Needless to say I was very fortunate and it was an incredible experience.
Anyway, over the years I have had the pleasure to meet various family members and have got to know them from a personal basis. In particular Joe Jackson has been great to us. He actually came over to our Southern California home to attend Mary’s 50th birthday party!
I remember attending the Jackson Family Honors and meeting all kinds of celebrities and experiencing what it is like to have security follow you around all day long.
Please say your prayers for the family members and let me know your thoughts below.
June 26th, 2009 at 12:56 am
It’s sad. He had a real troubled life in spite of all his fame. I hope he knew JESUS. His family is in my prayers.
June 26th, 2009 at 12:57 am
[...] is a sad day! I just heard that Michael Jackson has died. I was friends with the Jackson family and I made a post about this at my personal [...]
June 26th, 2009 at 1:00 am
I am a little surprised by your blog. I understand that a great entertainer has died and may God bless their family. But for all the controversial issues regarding molestation of children and you represent a safe haven for kids on the internet , I have to say I will not be receiving your newsletters anymore. It is a saddened day when more people mourn the loss of a man that had questionable ethics and morality than people like Mother Theresa who did more for the poor & hungry. Our society truly makes me question morality in this country
June 26th, 2009 at 1:07 am
I understand how you can feel that way and I understand. But I knew family members on a personal basis and they are human beings and sure they have had some trouble times and lots of accusations but what Michael has done in his giving and kindness is mathecd by very few people.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:13 am
It is especially poignant and sad that an icon the likes of Michael Jackson arrives at the end of his life span so prematurely. We have learned so much from this standard bearer. His contributions have clearly helped untold numbers of people across the world become aware of ways to enhance living with music, song and dance.
These potentially HEALING modes of activity, along with their sheer entertainment value, have allowed for an elevation of better thoughts and feelings, totally consonant with concepts related to A Better Community for All.
For those wanting a place to go for some INTENTION MEDITATION on such a loss for the world, ABC4All’s page is available including Lighting Candles in Michael’s memory:
http://ABC4All.net/intentionmeditation.htm
Respectfully,
Burt Danet
A candle lit for Michal Jackson’s Memory
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=8658773
June 26th, 2009 at 1:17 am
I was very shocked to hear of his early passing. Despite his odd life, I’ve always been a fan of the music, especially the Jackson Five. Very sad. I set up a small website with some designs in his honor that I think are very tasteful and not too exploitative.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:19 am
yes i feel sorry
June 26th, 2009 at 1:19 am
I don’t see the website published so I’ll put it here: http://www.cafepress.com/MichaelRIP
June 26th, 2009 at 1:35 am
Yes it is sad when a person dies at that young of an age. However, I agree 110% with the comments that Mary stated earlier. This man has harmed children! Why does this organization elevate him to this level of humanity? Greg you state “they are human beings and sure they have had some trouble times and lots of accusations but what Michael has done in his giving and kindness is mathecd by very few people.” 10 billion dollars of charity cannot undue the damage that has been done to those children! I will not recieve your news letter anymore and will share the views of this organization. This is disturbing…
June 26th, 2009 at 1:39 am
Russel I hear what you are saying. But do you believe in justice? Because if you do, remember he was acquitted. If you don’t, do you believe in forgiveness? Becuase I do! I agree with you that no money can make up for harm to a child but in America you are innocent until proven guilty. We all have our opinion and I respect yours.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:41 am
Ben – Michael Jackson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSqo17o2a1w
June 26th, 2009 at 1:53 am
For anyone concerned with the wellbeing of minors adopting the ostrich position is not acceptable. To say, “well he was acquitted” is to ignore the fact that this is how so many of those who prey on children manage to get away with it. People look the other way, justify the behaviour in some way and the perpetrators continue abusing. You suggest forgiveness which suggests to me that you feel there is something that needs to be forgiven. Sorry, you are out of step with me and I suggest with the majority of parents on this one
June 26th, 2009 at 1:53 am
I think he was one of the best entertainers of all times.That fact does not exclude him from the law.Where there is smoke there is fire and unfortunately the child molestation charges may have had some truth.Thank’s god he had lots of money to protect himself.One needs to place themselves in those parent’s shoes and understand how they felt believing their children were interfered with.Being a superstar is not all that is important being a morally good person in the eyes of our creator is even more important.
God bless his soul.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:00 am
It is such a sad day. He had a troubled life and I am sad he has died so young. I agree with Greg, you are innocent until proven guilty. I pray that he has returned home to a better place where God and the angels will accept him for who is is. He will be truly missed.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:09 am
Sorry but I also agree with Mary’s comment and Ino longer wish recieve your news letter. I think it is a total disgrace for him to be idolized after all he has done to children. No amount of money can erase the damage done to those children. Yes he had talent , alot of talent! HOWEVER his talent made him money to pay his way out of alot of his sickness,or perversion. Yes I believe in forgiveness but when it comes to children I have a hard time forgiving those who soil a childhood forever. That is why Jesus had to die on the cross and He alone can forgive Michael , IF Michael asked for forgiveness, before, his last breath. Jesus Is perfect and we as humans are not able to just lay aside such a horrible injustice to the innocent. I will continue to pray for my Lord to put that forgiveness in my heart but until that day comes I will not be able to forgive . And for someone such as yourself to honor him is a disgrace in its self. I do however fell sorrow for the family especially his mother and they along with the children he has abused will be in my prayers.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:13 am
I, too am sorry for the Jackson Family. It is always hard to lose one of your own. I also appreciate the Jackson Five.
The accusations are sad and justice was played, the American way… MONEY. I was most disturbed by this young man’s public display of grabbing his own privates and squealing; called a “dance”. I worked with a private school at the time and the influence on the children of the day was funny in the childrens’ eyes but was sexual in nature and their laughs were not one of entertainment.
THAT WAS A SAD DAY FOR AMERICA.
His lack of proper care of his own little ones infront of the News cameras in England was especially disturbing… But the issue here, is SORROW for the JACKSON FAMILY.
I must admit that with his constant strenuous excercise called “dance”, I find it hard to understand that such a YOUNG man could have a Cardiac Arrest. It just always amazes me when people DIE at the Workout Centers.
When our time comes, there is no explaining it. People are never really “ready” for such a goodbye. I agree with an early response that I HOPE Michael was READY for eternity by FAITH in JESUS the CHRIST. That is what really counts, NOW.
“Let him who has no sin cast the first stone”, that’s what Jesus said and I therefore am sad by the response of some people. ALL of us influence the world; some for good and some for bad. NONE of us are GOOD all the time.
To the Jackson Family, sincere condolences.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:19 am
Michael lives on thru his music. Many are filled with meaningful lyrics.
“We are the world, We are the children We are the ones who make a brighter day So let’s start giving.
There’s a choice we’re making, We’re saving our own lives.
It’s true we’ll make a better day Just you and me.”
Peace.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:25 am
It is always sad for ANY FAMILY, to have to deal with such a loss, but as stated above, (in my oppinion), he was not this great person. How he did what he did to all those children,and then got away with it, either becauce of his name or the facat that he could affore only the best lawyers, doesn’t mean a thing. After all O.J., was found innocent as well, then wrote a book how he got away with it. As much as I do beleive in the legal system, nothing is fell proof. I won’t grieve his death, but I will pray that his family can find peace, in their time of need. As you stated, no one should should have to bury their child.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:28 am
I believe in justice and more importantly, forgiveness. But, unfortunately as we all know, justice isn’t always served and forgiveness a rare commodity. The guilty sometimes go free and the innocent are occasionally incarcerated. That’s our system and I fully support it. I also recall the OJ Simpson case and it’s similarities. Money, Prominence and the media often play a role but don’t change the facts. I think you are displaying poor judgment Mr. Writer; I’ve done that as well in the past and it pains me that sometimes my heart is hardened by indisputable facts that no amount of money can change.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:29 am
I refuse to morn some one like MJ sorry to those who think he is so great. He would never be able to pay me off. If he touched one of my children he would surely pay.. so i say good reddens to bad garbage.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:32 am
Also… do not sent me any more of your mailings. how can you be what you claim and be such a supporter of MJ’s.. just saying, i think you are a fake.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:34 am
we have no business judging him for crying out loud he served his purpose while he was here we all owe God one thing and that is one death he has paid his debt to God now it is up to God to use him how he see’s fit I worked with the family years ago the famuly leased office space in the trizec western building in the early seventies so,we all have to pay our debt so lets correct what we can now that is whats important live love laugh…………..
June 26th, 2009 at 2:40 am
I have to stand with you Greg. This is not the time to cast stones. Granted he was different, but to Eer is human, to forgive devine. Personally I question the validity of the accusations. He was aquitted the last time and others were paid then did not pursue criminal charges. What parent who’s child was harmed would be satisfied with any sum of money? His family loves him as do his many fans. His sudden and unexpected death is tragic. A great loss for the chairites he helped. We all know someone who is not the best perosn, but that does not reflect who we are or what we believe. To his family: I am so sorry for you loss and grief.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:45 am
We will miss you Michael Jackson thee will never be another to fill his shoes he is and will always be the greatest entertainer of all TIME
June 26th, 2009 at 2:49 am
If you are a Christian you will forgive Michael, that is if there is anything to forgive him for. Our Lord is in control
of this matter. What a day it will be when my Jesus I will see. God Bless the family
June 26th, 2009 at 3:08 am
I was saddened to hear that Michael Jackson died. I base this on his public persona as an incredible entertainer. Privately he must have led a tormented life. I don’t think any of us really knows his impact on the children with whom he had contact. If he did harm any of these children, I would expect him to be judged at the pearly gates for what he did. What we do know is that he raised the spirits of millions of people through his singing, dancing, and his many charitable deeds. I will never forget the joy in the faces of the many children I have seen trying to sing and dance like Michael Jackson. These children (now adults) will probably remember him the way I do and feel sad that he is gone.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:09 am
I pray he ask God to forgive him for all his sins, before leaving this world.My prayers go out to his family. John 3:16 For God so loved the world. that he gave his only begotten son,that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. It would be wise for the ones who gave there opinion to Read the Bible its full of ways one should live. After all HOLY Bible stands for He Only Left You Basic Instructions before leaving earth.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:11 am
No I did not know Mr. Jackson personally,but I am a fan of his and am sorry to hear that he has passed.May he rest in peace.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:26 am
In spite of the ugly publicity about Michael his music was still great. However, I have read another news article that states that the person who died today was an imposter and that Michael’s body was found decaying in a grave under the tracks on the property at Netherland. He has been dead about 18-20 years and the person who died today is suspect of murdering Michael Jackson. That sheds a different light on the molestation charges because he would have been dead. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. God is a forgiving God and who are we to judge? This is American where we are innocent until proven guilty. He who is without sin cast the first stone please. Read your history and learn how many presidents had a mistress. Which ones believed in reincarnation.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:34 am
To those who are disturbed
and forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us. (TLB, Matthew 6:12)
And trying to find a middle ground on his whole legacy will be the toughest thing that any given individual will have to find. (even they so choose to do…)
Even through death — Here’s something I think about….He is creating a personal spiritual journey for everyone by his death. Everyone will determine how his legacy stands with them in their hearts and minds forever. Good or Badly. No matter what you think, judge or believe of him. This death I know makes me think of my own legacy on this human earth. i hope everyone re-thinks theirs and does something amazing in their life.
No matter what sins or acts of questionable ethics and morality michael jackson did in his own life outside of fame…
We should all start thinking like this
“We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey.”
Everyone has their place on this planet. The evil and the greatest good.
Thanks for listening.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:41 am
I have loved “Mike” all my life. I am a lover of music and it runs through my veins, as I believe it did in his. I have never believed that he did the things to children that he was accused of and God is the one who will judge. So, as I respect the opinions of all, I believe those who did not view with their own eyes, but still lay guilt, are not respecting God. Let Mike lay in rest because it will never be proven and even the parents of the said children laid it to rest after being paid. That in itself says it all, because no amount of money would let me lay to rest someone I believe actually harmed my child. Rest in Peace Mike.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:46 am
Michael was raised in a cult by family who claim they are Christians. Jehovah’s Witnesses mess with your mind and Kate and Joe are nothing but hypocrites. You should be ashamed of yourself for promoting these people.
Michael was a tortured soul and come on, as a molestation victim, he did it. Don’t be that naive Greg. Don’t try and play off on the celebrity bandwagon to promote your Website. Shame on you.
But I do love his music and think he was the most talented performer ever.
God will forgive him but show some class and call a spade a spade.
John
June 26th, 2009 at 3:49 am
We are not talking about a mistress here. We are talking about a child molester !! There is a big difference between two adults and an adult and a child! And yes there are alot of SICKO’s in this world but that does not mean we are supposed to accept their behavior.
However his children and his family are grieving for him and we need to try and lift them in prayer. And Michael will be judged by our creator, He will pay for any wrong doings. And Thank God he is not letting him harm any more children on this earth.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:04 am
I was shocked and sadden with the news of Michael Jackson’s passing. What grieves me even more is the fact how people can judge how he lived his life and have no compassion to what he had to endure as a young entertainer and through out his life. Let God be the judge. In order for us to be forgiven we need to forgive as well. The only perfect person that walked on this earth was Jesus. Let Michael rest in peace and keep the Jackson family in prayer that God may comfort them and give them peace that surpasses all understanding in there time of sorrow.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:16 am
My condolences to the Jackson family. God Bless them.
Think of Me If one day because of life I cease to exist
think of me upon your night of my remembrance and if you feel solitude just close your eyes and look for me in your thoughts. All that we desired all our wants that were left to live in this; they live on and think of me, and I promise you the memories of me will never leave you…
With all the respect and memory this is a poem for Michael Jackson and family that was written by me,
Regina Gomez Vetancourt.
May Jehova and his son Jesus Christ be with you’ll through this time of pain and lose
June 26th, 2009 at 4:22 am
“Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” It seems the stones have already been cast by millions of people, including some on this blog, by people who do not understand that no sin is worse that another in the eyes of an absolutley Perfect and Holy God. And that this judgment, made by mere human beings on Michael Jackson’s behalf, is somewhat less sinful that an unholy accusation that only God can know for sure actually happened. Instead, I would suggest that, by faith, we trust that Almighty God took Micheal Jackson’s soul and pronounce on it either His judgement or mercy. And that, as a result of his death, the Jackson family will do all they can do to see to it that they continue to fund and help protect children from the preditors on the internet. It seems that the Pharisees also pronounced judgmnent on a women caught in inexcusable adulterous act and that these same human beings had the same disgust for the Son of Man and the mercy He demonstrated so clearly and courageously, in defense of this, in human terms, “slut.” I speak from the heart of a man who, as a child, was abused constantly for over four years both physically and mentally by a human being who was charged to be my coach, teacher and protector. The deep, deep pain will always remain, but in the deepest most intimate parts of my soul, forgiven and pressed forward and I pray that God continues to forgive ME seven times seven those who I wrong and hurt every single day.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:30 am
I will pray for Michael’s family. I did not die on the cross for Michael and so I can’t stand in judgement. I do not know for sure what went on in his life, and all I have to go on are accusations. Until we get to heaven we will never know for sure. May God bless his family and I thank God for the talent that they shared with us.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:48 am
LW said it for me when he quoted,
“We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey.”
Greg it took courage to take the stance you did today. You could have ignored this – given who you are for kids. You could have ridiculed – given who you are for kids. And you honored someone and his family – given who you are for kids.
None of us can condone child molestors etc… there are many stones left unturned as this whole story plays out (when did he really die?) Best that we all can do is stay open to truth and beauty manifesting itself or not, being authentic and willing to see our and his shortcomings and not making them wrong just human.
Peace be with Micheal and his family.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:48 am
Thank you, I am not going to judge him..The Lord is the only one who can judge him.. I pray that he confessed Jesus before he died and asked him to forgive HIM..We ALL SIN..I REALLY FEEL SAD FOR HIS PARENTS..I AM SO SORRY FOR THEIR LOSS..I KNOW THAT HE WAS ACCUSED OF A LOT OF THINGS BUT IF HE ASKED FOR FORGIVENESS HE IS IN HEAVEN..PEOPLE NEED TO LOOK AT THE WHATSOEVERS IN THE BIBLE AND THINK ON THEM..THANKS AND GOD BLESS ALL..E.M
June 26th, 2009 at 4:55 am
[...] is a sad day! I just heard that Michael Jackson has died. I was friends with the Jackson family and I made a post about this at my personal [...]
June 26th, 2009 at 5:24 am
It is a sad day..Michael Jackson was a very talented performer..He will be missed. He had to endure all the hear say from the papers..I believe he was a good person and he did not do the things that were said against him..Knowing what I know about courts you can be wrongfully accused of things that are not true..Unless you live in the lime light you should not accuse of which you do not know..He saw what most people could not see..He did make mistakes as all of us do..Who are we to judge..That is not our place only God..I know he is in a better place and at peace..I will say a pray for his family and friends..God bless you Michael Jackson you will be missed..
June 26th, 2009 at 6:01 am
Wow, all these people so quick to judge! All I remember is the guy being tried by the wonderfully, un-biased press we have here in the states. Must have been a slow period for slamming the president.
Who here judging the guy was in that place witnessing the supposed abuse? Who has any more evidence? I’m sure the DA up there would have loved to have it instead of getting embarrassed in the international press. MJ was acquitted, get over it!
I think the child was abused, not by MJ, but by the mother who was out trolling for a handout ($$) and using her sick child as a tool to do it. What sane, loving parent would let a child “spend the night” with a 40′ish year old, (in his bedroom by the way) and not have shivers up their spine? I have 6 kids (two combined families), and I wouldn’t let my kids out of my sight unless I knew the person very well and I was damn well convinced they were not a threat.
And as one person mentioned no amount of money would buy her off. So you admit the mother took advantage of the child by taking some kind of supposed bribe, but MJ is the bad person. I’m confused. Get your story straight!
She tried to blackmail him and lost.
If you want to get off the newsletter because Greg is supportive of the family then I guess that’s your decision. Are you going to also stop using the software too and take away the protection your child enjoys, or are you going to be a hypocrite and keep using it, but judge Greg anyway?
I saw no where in Gregs blog that he was supportive of anything MJ was accused of, he was simply paying respects to the family. Does one bad apple in the family make the entire family bad? And, if a caring person wants to support a troubled family does that now make him bad?
I guess Elvis needed to be banned because of the way he danced too!
I am sick of you judgmental, ‘I want my cake, and I want to eat it too, but you can’t have any // we need more jails, but not in my neighborhood // I want an airport close by, but don’t fly any planes because they are too noisy and it might interfere with my tea party” clowns in CA. I can’t wait to get the H*&^ out of here!
I say keep up the good work Greg, and I’m staying on the list. I still have one kid left in the nest and I need all the help I can get!!!
June 26th, 2009 at 6:02 am
Greg,
Today is my birthday. I am 48 years old. I have followed Michael Jackson since the very first album, of which I still have. He played a very large role in my young life. My siblings and my children and my nieces and nephews, cousins and the like, feel that I am responsible for bringing Michael into our lives. Now, on my birthday, they call me to say how prophetic it is that he passes on my birthday and for that we will be forever linked.
I’ve watched Michael go through all the changes and my heart still goes out to him. It is difficult for me to celebrate; however he gave me so much with his gift, genius and charisma that I know that celebrate, I must. I feel he is “Gone too Soon”, the title of one of his songs, but he will be “Forever Michael” the title of one of his albums. And for the rest who judge and foster mistreatment and cruelty towards those who are different, “Just Stop Doggin’ Him Around.” May Michael Joseph Jackson rest in peace now.
My thoughts and prays go out to his family, friends and fans. I have lots of love for Michael and always will.
Thanks for providing the space for to share my thoughts. My heart aches right now, but Michael is in peace and where we will all be one day.
Be Blessed,
Annette
June 26th, 2009 at 6:33 am
I believe our Lord even in the last breath of Michael life was there to forgive him like the thief on the cross.. We just don’t know what transpired between Michael and the Lord Jesus Christ.. as soon as I heard the news and we did not know if he was alive I started praying for the Lord to reveal Himself once again to Michael for salvation.. All of us need to lift up the whole world for salvation.. My prayers go out to his entire family to come and really know Jesus as their Savior because life is short and we don’t know when each of us will take our last breath and go out to eternity.To Heaven or Hell. Let God be his judge not us.. Judge not lest you be judged
June 26th, 2009 at 6:41 am
Today when I heard Michael was taken to the hospital and we just did not know if he was alive or dead I started praying that our Lord would visit upon him like the theif on the cross, if He never really received Jesus as his Lord and Savior. I pray for his family that Jesus, heaven and death will be a reality that all of us will face one day. Judge not lest you be judged. I hope He did get right with the Lord and entered Heaven.. We are all one breath away from Heaven or Hell. Remember John 3:16.We all must lift up his children and other family members in prayer.
June 26th, 2009 at 6:42 am
prayers are with all the family and I hope he made his peace and asked Jesus to be his Savior
June 26th, 2009 at 7:08 am
Michael Jackson was a very good singer and I loved all his music.
I wish I could have met him in person.
I would have loved to shake is hand.
I will mist him very much.Rest in peace Michael.
June 26th, 2009 at 7:46 am
it is a sad moment and trial time.
Death is seen as a eternal seperation from our beloved family members.
However, we got to decide NOW where after this life is over. There’s hope of meeting if we
Put ourselves right with God. DECIDE NOW!!
Thanks.
June 26th, 2009 at 8:02 am
I was very surprised to hear that Michael Jackson died along with Farah Fassett. I believed that Michaels soul is in God’s hands. We are all sinners and saved by the grace of God. We need to be ready to meet the Lord at anytime. We are all just one breath away from meeting the Lord. Time is very short and Jesus is coming Soon!! So be ready.
June 26th, 2009 at 8:26 am
you were priviledge to have met the jackson family and have precious memories.on hearing of the passing of michael i was shocked and very sad.michael seemed to have had a generous nature and a tender heart.my heart goes out to the family as we have lost a young son of 20years and my husband and i will have exsperienced the pain of loss.As we always remember when we have faith in the Lord we are only a moment away and the hope will get them through.
June 26th, 2009 at 8:59 am
true that he was a great performer but Greg a spade is a spade you cannot over look the mistakes,but the who are we to judge another when there is a mightier person above us who is designated to do the work………….all the same my heart goes out to the grieving family.
June 26th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Wow, Greg…your little blog started a round of some spirited discussion, eh? I appreciated Michael’s talents for what they were (and his song and dance routine was brilliant from the get-go.) Good to see some of the believers agreeing with you about what’s important…for others, I can only say that I was not on a jury or legal team during the trial, and I’m not about to believe everything fed me via the agenda-driven media…and, I am certainly not his Judge. I would refer those interested to Matthew 18:1-9 and 7:1-5… John 8:1-11 Romans 4:4-8.
June 26th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Im not a fan of ol MJs, and Im happy hes gone hes free from this world and it’s crulty, No, I personally don’t think it’s sad that he has moved on and that’s what has happened, Gosh don’t morn him celebrate his life even if he made a few mistake’s along the way sooo what we all make mistakes and wrong choices, the world is such a crule place where human’s will go as far as to condeem rather then forgive, he is free from this crule world, and even free from people who are bound by unforgiveness of his past life, God is LOVE unconditional love and he already knew how MJs life was going to turn out, GOD knows everything and how to save mankind he will save All of mankind, because he is God. and right now you can pull out every stop sign and i don’t give a toss about anyones religion, God isn’t about religion but an intimate relationship with all mankind, He is LOVE and desires all mankind too be saved, and michael has gone home to be with loved ones who have ushered him into heaven.
So good yah MJ cheers!
June 26th, 2009 at 9:43 am
R.I.P King of Pop Michael Jackson
May he rest in peace.
We all are going to miss him.
He’ll live in our hearts forever.
June 26th, 2009 at 11:57 am
I appreciate your sentiments Greg. No matter what MJ was to us, to his family he was their son, and brother. They are the ones who need our prayers to get through this time of grief. For myself (not particularly a MJ fan), I could see where growing up the way he did in the limelight, that he could be very naive in some ways, not sophisticated. I believe that mentally he was still a child and that’s why he chose to spend so much time with children. I mean, I remember hearing an interview where he lamented never having pushed a supermarket trolley in a grocery store. Something we certainly take for granted. Anyway, he’s now standing before God and it HE who knows the truth and will judge.
June 26th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
Our thoughts & prayers go out to his Family. He worked wonders for the children and made a huge difference in some of thier lives May God Bless Him. He is forever in our thoughts as is his Family
June 26th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
SAD DAY…
I was there at Graceland and was among the first to see the lifeless body of my stepbrother Elvis Presley. I was at the hospital when the doctor walked into the waiting room and said he was gone. I can only imagine the chaos that is taking place at the hospital where they took Michael. I’ve been there friends – 32 years ago when not only a rock icon died but a big brother.
My prayers are with the Jackson family.
Rest in peace Michael.
June 26th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Greg,
It is a sad day for the Jackson family and for all of us who have fond memories of Michael’s music and dance moves. It was SHOCKING news to hear. I didn’t realize how much of an impact such news would have on me. I’ve been singing “Thriller” over and over in my head remembering high school friends and the “moon walk.” Michael’s talents had a HUGE impact during that time in my life.
God Bless Us All.
June 26th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
I feel deeply saddened by this death. I have also felt true pity for this man who, I believe, is actually innocent of the charges brought against him. I believe his peculiarities paved the road to the accusations though. In my opinion, Michael Jackson, had not fully developed mentally – to say, he was still somewhat of a child (not less intelligent). I believe he had a very poor self image and destroyed himself trying to reach some unattainable goal he had set in his mind. I do not believe it was right for him to share a bed with these children, however, I do not believe anything untoward happened. Maybe I am being naive – maybe not. He was a child and so he enjoyed spending time with children. This is a man that was denied a childhood, young adulthood and adulthood for the pleasure of others. If you believe MJ was actually guilty of the charges, why are you not calling for the parent’s of the alleged victims to be brought to justice. Can you justify the acceptance of money to drop those charges? If you can -then the children of the world should fear you! I believe these parents saw a man who was emotionally needy, desparate for a “normal” life and love, and saw dollars signs and because of his eccentricies, a way to make those dollars signs turn into dollars. He was acquitted because there was no proof of criminal activity. Just because charges may be filed against someone is not a guarantee that the defendant is guilty. Enough said on that. I am a mourner with a heavy heart.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Tks for informing… Keep up the good work helping arents around the world in this blessed/difficult task of raising our kids. And yes, I agree with someone above that the parents are the ones who indeed sexual molested their kids by alowing them to stay with MJ, an unstable person… far from showing a proper behavior of “children of God” (I JOhn 3) Blessings!!!!!!!!
June 26th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
People may always label and judge what an individual is accused of, over and over again. But to literally refuse to hear any other options. and stay in the same frame of mind is childish.
my sympathy to the Jackson family is complete – and Thank you to Michael for having entertained us – Dreams to come true and I’m sure you contributed to many who had a dream.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
IT TRULY IS SAD WHEN THE ONE YOU’VE KNOWN ALL YOUR LIFE HAS PASSED AWAY. IT’S EVEN SADDER TO KNOW THAT HE WAS SAD WITHIN AND NEVER WAS TRULY HAPPY. HE HAD IT ALL SO WE THOUGHT… BUT YOU HAVE TO FIRST HAVE GOD. SO TO THE FAMILY… MICHAEL WILL TRULY BE MISSED. IT IS MY PRAYER THAY GOD GIVE YOU PEACE AT THIS TIME.
GABRIELLE LAWRENCE
June 26th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
While I believe that Michael is held to a ‘higher standard’ than the average person, let’s take this time to mourn his loss, and celebrate his accomplishments. Let’s also remember that God is the ultimate judge. Many of us, who havew not met Michael, nor his family, view him and the ‘alleged’ accusations based on tabloid information, and not facts. If it is absolutely necessary for US to pass judgement, then make sure you have all of FACTS, and understand that you too will one day be judged by the same God. Thank you Greg for reminding us that the family needs our prayers right now, I pray that Michael knew Jesus, because all of his money & all of his fame won’t secure him a spot in Eternity, unless he knew God.
For those readers who decide never to receive your newsletter again, I pray for their souls, as they sound extremely ‘judgemental’, and they should look in their mirror and see wheter or not they are perfect, without tarnish & if they are living according to GODS standards.
Lastly, I want to be clear that I don’t support in any way adults who sexually, or physically violate children. I also don’t like thieves, liars, or murderers; but the Bible tells me that their will be those who have have asked for and received ‘forgiveness’ for thier deeds here on earth. So let’s pray & rember the family at this time, as they cope with their loss.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
I agree with John, number 42 response. I think he summed it up quite nicely. For those of you that can’t forgive, don’t forget that it is in scripture that you will be judged by the way you judge. You will be forgiven, by the way you forgive. You can’t have it both ways. If you claim to be a Christian, then you need to practice scripture. When someone is as famous as Michael Jackson, people make them a target. The people that accused Michael may very well be the sick ones. Were you there? If you were, then you should have stopped it or reported it right? But you didn’t, which would mean YOU WEREN’T THERE! You are judging. I suggest you get acquainted with the 10 commandments. It is people like you who turn others off from becoming Christians. No one wants to follow the lead of a hypocrite. In case you don’t know, the definition of hypoctrite: A person who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that he or she does not actually possess. A person whose actions belie stated beliefs.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
R.I.P King of Pop Michael Jackson
May he rest in peace.
We all are going to miss him.
He’ll live in our hearts forever.
June 26th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
It’s so sad to hear about Michael Jackson. As a dancer, I’m performed almost every one of his hits in some form or another. A lot of celebrities have died recently, but he’s the first one that had a big impact on my life personally. It’s a really weird feeling. Anyway, nice post.
June 26th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
To those who make judgements God (Allah) is the the only one who judges . MJ was a person like us with sins . what we should take into concederation is how this person could change his life from poverty to richness . He is dead now but we are alive .He is famious but we are not .we commet sins as he did but not known to others .
June 26th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I too met him years ago, before all the “noise”. I found him to be very sweet, extremely shy, and always polite. His last years made me sad for him. Peace, Dorothy.
June 26th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
Well, I don’t think he died 18 to 20 years ago but Yahoo informed the public of his death around 8pm last night. I feel bad for his family and friends. It’s hard to lose someone you love. I don’t feel sorry for Michael though. Why should any of us feel sorry for him. He is in a much better place than we are. The love our God has for us and the forgiveness we receive from him is something we, as humans, simply cannoth understand. I pray for us in general, for our country and for our president because if we don’t straighten out ourselves and our society we deserve everything bad thing that comes our way. Michael may have done some terrible things in his life, it sure looks as if he did, but he did a lot of good too. We all have to try to do more good than bad and have faith that our downfalls & mistakes will be forgiven. Our country and society is headed down the wrong road. It’s not on the straight and narrow path that leads to righteousness. God have mercy on Michael’s soul AND on all of us!
June 26th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Ditto…I agree with #14 Glynis
June 26th, 2009 at 4:07 pm
I liked his music like a lot of people. You have to admit he was an inspiration and did some good with We are the World, etc. He might have been a bit strange sometimes, but who wouldn’t be after being world famous from the age of 5. He was in show biz after all. Innocent or guilty it’s none of my business. He had his day in court.
June 26th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
I was SHOCKED when I heard about Michael Jackson death yesterday! I believe he was a kind and gentle man who was miss represented and was taken advantage off because of his fame and fortune. I do believe his father is to blame. Do to his greed for cash, he pushed his kids especially Michael to perform. He defiantly missed his childhood! I hope where ever he is, he is the child he always wanted to be! RIP my friend!
June 26th, 2009 at 4:22 pm
it is very sad that he died he was cool singer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i hope his family be ok and safe !!!!!!!!! He has 3 kids and i hope they be ok please help them because their dad died!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and i hope that his kids have good life and michael jackson was good singer for million people!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 26th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
please help these kids
June 26th, 2009 at 5:19 pm
although i don’t have an opinion on his guilt, i do find it almost scary that someone endorsing a child-safe internet is speaking highly of a man who has been accused of child molestation, held a baby out of a window, and all of the other media stunts he pulled. Who else do you fraternize with Mr. Writer?
June 26th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Hey, have you seen this news article?
New details about Michael Jackson’s Death Emerge
I was wondering if you were going to blog about this…
June 26th, 2009 at 6:12 pm
By the way, the story about him dying 10-20 years ago was from a satirical site called “The Onion”. Not to be taken seriously.
June 26th, 2009 at 6:26 pm
hi my name is hannah, i am a 12 year old girl, i loved pop music the first pop song i had ever herd was when i was around 5, my sister was 10, & she showed me a michael jacksons song thirler i apsultuley loved it, i had begged my mother to buy it for me she said no, so my sister burned it for me on cd, i heard that song at least 700 times i listened to it over, & over till it had so manny scraches you couldn’t hear it anymore so i just wish i could have met himi heard the news on tv @ my best friends house as soon as we heard it we said a little prayer so i just want to say thank you jackson family i will keep him in my prayers, & i will burn more cds
love hannah
June 26th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
hannah i would hope your parents would forbid you going near someone like him. i am sure they would.
June 26th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I can’t believe that you would want to associate yourself and company in anyway with MJ, or his family. You have done a dis-service to your subscribers, investors, employees, and your company. I can only hope that you resign your position with CEN.
June 26th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
I am very sorry that you feel that way, but you are entitled to your opinion.
June 26th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Michael Jackson is and was a true entertainer, producer, writer, and had the magic within him. He was able to open
his gifts and talents and use the universal language called
music and make a lot of difference to a lot of people throughout the world. He understood true gifts and he pursued them with a burning desire. His contribution, will
be missed.
I admire you Greg, pat you on the back and say Thank You for being a person who chooses to live a life of non-judgement, just as the universe or God has asked us to do. Blessings to you Greg!
My prayers go out to the Jackson Family, friends, and fans!
With Love and Gratitude,
Jane Myers
June 26th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Michael Jackson, I never really cared a lot about his music. He lacked character to me. People have to remember one thing God says “Judge not less ye be judged” all these comments are very judging to me and I will not reply to this controversy it is not our place to say what he done was right or wrong because we do not know. What has happened is someone has passed on and for the respect of his family we should keep comments about the lives of others to themselves. I am a fairly decent person like I know all who have commented here are. I just felt I needed to say these few words as comfort to myself. May God bless us all and keep us safe.
Wanda
June 26th, 2009 at 11:27 pm
Thank you my friend for speaking your heart. I am not surprised but once again reminded as to the narrow scope of reality held by the religious minded. This is a time to exude love. Thank you for doing so.
I had the opportunity to meet Michael Jackson. I visited him in his home in Santa Barbara. Most have not. Most choose to judge or create their bias based on what they have read, heard or seen in the media and then spew their righteous, venomous judgement as if their beliefs are based on personal knowledge. Michael was human. Michael was blessed beyond measure with talent and love and committed himself to be the best he knew to be in all that he did.
His body of work speaks for itself and will forever leave a mark on humanity.
His generosity will forever continue to be recognized and make a difference in the world.
His accusers choose to believe only the negative because that is their programmed response. He was found innocent. He continued to be treated as if guilty. Judgement beyond measure. Those who are committed to his negative judgement will forever continue to “justify” their negative beliefs.
He was not found to be perfect. Nor would any human.
May he rest in peace. May his family be comforted in this time of grief. May we as a society learn to live our lives from a space of love rather than not.
Thank you for having the courage to speak your truth.
Namaste
Scip
June 27th, 2009 at 1:21 am
we all need to thank God for the life of Micheal Jackson.That gave so much in song and a loving person how care deep for the children of the world.I grown up on the Jackson 5 song’s.My pray’s are for his Mother & Father.
and the many number’s of the Family.I to lost a sister that die in a car mash.The pain of lose is great.The only one that can help the pain is the Lord Jesus how take away the pain.so let Us stop and love world the way we can.
June 27th, 2009 at 1:52 am
Like Ive said before, GOD IS LOVE Unconditional Love and desires All mankind to be saved even MJ, Jesus was created in the likeness of man born of a women, MJs Body is asleep/dead but his spirit LIVES because of what jesus did at the cross for All, his shed Blood at the cross was for the forgiveness of All Humankinds error that includes MJs, MJs Loved ones who went before him have ushered him inn, MJs home with the Lord which is far better then to be here in the his Body. I don’t go to church or belong to any religion but i sure know God and his son and that he is LOVE
Greg thank you for the wonderful work that you continue to do in keeping our kid’s safe, some folk have mis-interpreted what you’ve said, you are only supporting the loss of a human life and the grieving family. it’s “The Now” that counts! not the past! thanks again Greg cheers!
Too All MJs Family, GOD loves everyone of you, None shall be lost, may Gods peace and love gentally rest upon you!
Too MJs fan’s Celebrate his life, i’m positivly sure he’d be happy to be free form sorrow and pain in this world Because he is still alive in his spirit! He LIVES!
And Too the KING OF POP “Hellalujah” Free from this life time! cheers to you MJ see you when it’s my turn to come home!
June 27th, 2009 at 2:03 am
You know I heard a joke today about Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett.
Farrah Fawcett upon reaching heaven was greated my our Lord. He told her she was entitled to one last wish…..Farrah thought for some time, then answered….I wish all the children in the world could be safe….The Lord replied….your wish will be granted…So He Took Michael Jackson Next….
Can’t help it this is how I feel…His music was great, and he did lots of good things, but I do believe in my heart he abused children.
June 27th, 2009 at 7:05 am
I heard today that he was at one time a christian but later changed to be a muselm.. does anyone know what his belief in the end was.. I prayed for the family today and his three children really need our prayers. Hehad so much talent and like Elvis and others if drugs were the cause of him dying so young, may we all learn from this.. He seemed so caring, loving, and in a way a very private person. In an interview a few years back he said for him to go out in public was difficult because so many knew him.. When we enter a grocery store or just go out to eat or take in a movie we are so lucky to not be bombarded by all the people.. In some ways he was a victim of his own success. How sad. May his children be able to live in peace away for the media
June 27th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I have no doubt in my mine that Michael Jackson has been the most talented Pop Artis in the face of the Earth.
But I do have doubt in believing the accusations that some greedy people has put him through.
I am very sorry to have lost another Mozart.
June 27th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
I hope that Michael knew Jesus, Because Jesus gives you a happy, peaceful life here and up there in heaven. My deepest condolences goes to all of the Jackson’s family. I’m glad you support this family. I do pray for his soul and his family.
God bless and be with the Jackson’s family.
Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.
June 27th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
Michael’s life path has indeed been most challenging. I don’t think we’ll ever know what it was like to be him and what he did and he did not do. I’ve learned along time ago that “Things are rarely as they seem.” God of course knows and that’s all that really matters. I admire his God-given talents and bless his family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace!
June 28th, 2009 at 11:57 am
I am shocked that someone who’s entire company is based on child safety would write a post like this.
I do not judge MJ, but no matter if is his guilty or not,he has been linked over and over again with the exact problem you suggest to keep at bay. Why would you associate yourself with that family?
It does not make sense.
You are sending mixed signals with what you wrote.
Please unsubscribe me, you scare me.
June 28th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
I THINK IT IS TERRIBLE THAT HE DIED AND THAT THERE WILL NEVER EVER BE ANOTHER PERSON AS GOOD AS HIM GO MICHAEL JACKSON AL LEAST YOUR IN A BETTER PLACE BUT U SHOULD HAVE HAD AT LEAST30 TO 40 YEARS
June 28th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Greg has expressed sorrow for a family that has lost a loved one. That is an act of kindness and it surprises me that anyone would fault him for that. As to judging Michael Jackson, I agree with everyone who pointed out that is not our place. I would just like to add that we, as a society, need to stop assuming the media is telling us the unbiased truth. The media tells us what they want us to hear or what they think we will listen to. Because of my career, I have given interviews and been personally involved in news worthy events. When I read or hear the news version of it, it is almsot never accurate. As to the Michael Jackson stories, the media sensationalized the parts of the story they thought would sell the most papers or put the most seats in front of their broadcast. The comedians then had alot of fun with the tragedy (it was a tragedy if it really happened or it was a tragedy because there was a false accusation). Neither the media nor the comedians are the problem. The problem occurs when people like you and me decide to accept it as true without the facts. It’s dangerous and it happens every day.
June 28th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
I was date-raped, drink-spiked (drug-raped) and robbed in my lifetime, thus http://www.safedayevents.com. Depending on our experiences, we all received some form of powerful mixed-messages about sex, drugs and alcohol, including Michael. Let’s re-commit to making sure no one’s child is naive and ill-equipped in the face of personal safety challenges. Greg Writer’s “Club Tuki” is one toy we do supply to our children’s schools to help them. “SAFE SPACE” is a non-profit project that appreciates support while offering job opportunities to make changes in our entertainment messages to everyone, especially children. I woke up this morning singing “Billie Jean”, one of my favorite songs! Do you think Billie Jeans, Johns, and Bosses could step forward and take a look at their choices and help us to make a difference?
June 29th, 2009 at 5:04 am
Eric and too all the other folks who no longer want any part of the child safty company. It would only be fair to the other parents and children who are reading these post that you folks professionally and disgretly in a letter or person email let the company no, thank you!
I have one child still in the nest and a grandchild, we will remain with Gregs writers company, honestly nobody needs to read about ones personal issues and negative judgements about the company because of one man’s past life, effects you, please keep that personally between your selves and whom it may concern’s thanks!
June 29th, 2009 at 11:38 am
We are told not to judge, that’s is God’s job. Let’s hope he repented as asked God for forgiveness before he died. As far as I am concerned, I won’t miss MJ one little bit as I don’t like his music or his way of entertaining, and I don’t think these people are any better than the rest of us. We all have our different talents, and some are in the spotlight and some aren’t. Entertainers are just human beings and shouldn’t be treated as “gods”! I am always sorry when someone dies, I know his family will miss him and my sympathy goes out to them.
June 29th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
I pray that this gets back to the Jackson Family and only The Jackson Family. I was watching the BET Awards last night, when Janet Jackson came on stage to thank everyone for their condolensces; but also to let Everyone know that Michael wasn’t just an ICON, he was someones family member; her brother and he is no longer here. PEOPLE, a mother has lost her son, a father has lost his son, brothers and sisters are hurting at this moment, from the lost of their sibling, and three children are left without a father. Michael has a family that truly loves him unconditionally, and they are in mourning at this time. Lets just continue to keep the whole Jackson Family in our prayers. And lets continue not to judge one another. Always in our hearts!
June 30th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I feel that Michael let a very sad life, despite his money and fame. As far as the child molestation accusation, he was acquitted. Let him now RIP and God bless him. He was very generous in giving back to charity.
July 1st, 2009 at 1:45 am
My God bless you as you in are in a place
called heaven.
You will be missed.
Love,
Linda
July 1st, 2009 at 9:00 pm
The negative influence of the teachings of the Jehovah’s Witnesses on Michael and his family have been either downplayed or totally ignored for as long as the Jackson Family has received public attention. For those readers who really want to know what life is like to be reared in the WatchTower Cult, nothing beats real world scenarios, and of real world scenarios, nothing beats actual civil and criminal court cases.
The following website summarizes 900 court cases and lawsuits involving children of Jehovah’s Witness Parents. The summaries demonstrate how JW Families rear their children and live life day-to-day. Also included are nearly 400 CRIMINAL cases — most involving MURDERS:
DIVORCE, BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS, AND OTHER LEGAL ISSUES AFFECTING CHILDREN OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
http://jwdivorces.bravehost.com
Excerpts from LaToya Jackson’s own 1991 biography, LATOTA: GROWING UP IN THE JACKSON FAMILY:
” … neither I nor my siblings ever led a normal existence, not even as small children, years before celebrity transformed our lives. We were a not-so-typical but classic dysfunctional family. Yes, there was love and happiness, but it was poisoned by emotional and physical abuse, duplicity, and denial. … The proscriptions of my Jehovah’s Witness faith, my mother’s seeming love and devotion, and my father’s inability to express any emotion but anger kept us all entangled in a web of guilt disguised as love, brutality that was called ‘discipline,’ and blind obedience that felt like loyalty. … We couldn’t identify it, but we all sensed something was wrong in our house. Most of my siblings ‘rebelled’ by essentially running away from home to teenage marriages. … I was Mother’s best friend, and the quietest, shyest, most obedient child of all. I surprised everyone. I also broke the cardinal rule of a dysfunctional family. I stopped living the lie and playing the destructive game. — pages 1-2.
“Thinking back over all those years, I realized that Mother was the guiding force behind the cruelty and abuse. This lady who pretended to be so gentle on the surface had in fact caused all the turmoil in our lives. We’d always thought that it was Joseph, but it was her, telling him what to do and how to do it. Like I’d said to her before, she was always throwing the rock and hiding her hand, convincing everyone — outsiders and my own
siblings — that she was sweet, kindhearted, and compassionate. Little did they know that the minute they were out of earshot she talked about them very, very viciously. After seeing it so many times, I finally had to face the fact that this was her true personality. — page 257.
“Michael and I were very active in the Jehovah’s Witness faith. … Five days a week the two of us and Mother studied the Bible at home and attended the Kingdom Hall. … Every morning Michael and I witnessed, knocking on doors around Los Angeles, spreading the word of Jehovah. … As my brother’s fame grew, he had to don convincing disguises, like a rubber fat suit he bought years later, — pages 53-4.
“… because we were supposed to associate exclusively with other members, Michael and I made few friends at the private high school … We did, however, become close with another [Jehovah's] Witness. Darles was my first and only friend outside the family, and I treasured the time we spent together. … Each day at lunch the three of us studied the Bible together. She also joined us at the Kingdom Hall. During a meeting, Darles bravely challenged one of the elders. … The elder’s reply was typical. He cited the scripture, which supported his position but did not really address Darles’s
point. So she wrote a letter … This outraged the other elders. One day Rebbie’s husband, Nathaniel [Brown], also an elder, cornered me. ‘LaToya,’ he said, ‘you’re never allowed to speak to Darles again. Ever. … She’s been disfellowshipped.’ … After that neither Michael nor I had anything to do with Darles. We missed her so much and for the first time began to privately reconsider some of the [WatchTower Society's] teachings. We felt that questions should be encouraged, not silenced through threats of disfellowship. — pages 55-56.
“Mother … frowned on our socializing with white kids, an attitude I found hypocritical coming from a Christian. — page 34.
“… both my parents harbor racist attitudes, particularly against Jews, … ‘Wherever you go, whatever you do in this business, you find a Jew,’ Mother used to complain bitterly all the time, ‘I can’t stand it.’ … She’d go on and on. ‘They’re always on top. Jews are so nosy. They like controlling you. I hate ‘em all.’ To their faces, however, my mother was as sweet as could be. … Hearing talk like this turned my stomach, especially when it came from my mother’s mouth. How could a religious woman be so hateful? … The depth of Mother’s loathing was expressed in one of her oft-repeated opinions: ‘There’s one mistake Hitler made in his life — he didn’t kill all those Jews. He left too many dxxx Jews on this earth, and they multiplied,’ –pages 132-4.
“On the Victory tour, … , [Michael] hired someone whose sole task was to locate a Kingdom Hall in each town so that Michael wouldn’t miss a single meeting. … Michael … won those record-breaking eight honors at the 1984 Grammy Awards. The very next morning one elder issued him an ultimatum that my brother must choose between music and the [Jehovah's Witness] religion. … Because Michael diligently studied the Bible, he could usually cite chapter and verse supporting his contention that entertaining people was not wrong. ‘I’m still living according to the [WatchTower Society's] teachings,’ he pointed out, as he’d done so many times before. I still go door to door wherever I am, even if I’m on tour. I can’t help it if people hang up my poster on their wall or tear my picture out of a magazine. I don’t ask them to idolize me. I only want them to enjoy my music.’ … many Jehovah’s Witnesses used to congregate outside the Kingdom Hall hoping to catch a glimpse of Michael Jackson,
knowing full well this kind of adulation was forbidden. Michael did everything humanly possible to demonstrate his dedication to Jehovah. Once when an elder criticized, ‘Your movements on stage suggest sex; don’t do them anymore,’ my brother complied without protest and promptly changed the routine. He also invited an elder on tour to see for himself that he lived in harmony with all the [WatchTower] faith’s rules, canvassed door to door, and attended all the meetings. … One day I walked into Janet’s room to find Michael crying his eyes out. ‘LaToya, … I can’t talk to you ever again. … The elders had a big meeting, and they told me never to speak to you because you haven’t been coming to the Kingdom Hall. … they said that if I don’t stop talking to you, they’ll kick me out of the religion.’ … Michael decided to disobey the elders’ edict and after that never attended any more meetings. … he subsequently severed his ties to the organization through a formal letter. What made this painful episode even more agonizing was that for a long time I believed Michael might be one of the Remnant, the select 144,000. — pages 196-200.
July 2nd, 2009 at 5:33 am
Hey i just can’t stop crying about the passing of MJ.
July 2nd, 2009 at 11:49 pm
I know Michael Jackson died but he didn’t die of cardiac arrest it was because he had a heart attack at an hospital in L.A . Any way I’m very sad and then again I’m not. Most people think he will go to a happy place and others don’t so I’m not sure what to think.
July 3rd, 2009 at 12:23 am
Really? You people are going to accuse Greg because he wrote an article when the king of pop died? Sure, he did some things in his life, I can give you that. But just because Greg writes an article about his death does not mean it effects the views and opinions of his amazing organization. Greg has done/ is doing an amazing job at protecting children on the internet. This article does not change a thing about that. His extraordinary products protect children around the world, and you think this article changes those products. NO, Michael Jackson was an American Icon at times. Sure he did some bad things, but that does not change the good things he did. I subscribe to almost every one of Greg’s products and I am very satisfied with every one!! Do not stop using his product because of one article.
July 14th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
I don’t like Mickeal Jackson!! He was a very nasty man, he raped kids. To me i think i would want him to stay away from me. He is not that good of a singer! I hope he asked god for his sins!! I pray for his family. If i had kids, i would want him to stay away from my kids to. I hope he got in trob for what he done to them kids to!! He is a VERY nasty && bad man!!
August 17th, 2009 at 3:34 am
i like them when they were the jackson 5 and i’m pretty sure that as they were growing up that they all slept together and bet you nothing funny was happenig then people make acusing jester all the time most of which are not true i don’t fill that in his case he did any thing stupid and if he did God is his judge and since we the other people were not there you will never know the truth but God knows and is dealing with him i’ve been misjudged my whole life and when they turely got to know the truth their i’m sorry did not help the punishment iVE had to go thur at their bad mouth judgements if you dont know for a 100.00 percent then just keep your judgements to your self….creeklady