Un-thinkable (I'm Ready), Alicia Keys

Every now and then I am reminded how humanity and my own character is changing. I speak to a fair amount of people around the world every day. Some are good, while others need a refresher course from the Book of Virtues. Today's was thanks to a woman in Nebraska. Upon taking the call I noticed that she was speaking individual muffled syllables separated by seconds between. I had a hard time understanding her and instantly became annoyed and thought of how I could write her off. I asked several questions asking what she was calling about because the only word I could understand was Or-der-ed.

I then decided to listen harder and her 15 second message was life-changing. "Th-anks for the Or-der." Instantly I was ashamed of my disgruntled thoughts towards this wise woman. In some ways it reminded me of Susan Boyle's audition. I was expecting a horribly flawed person, but quickly realized the judgment was a reflection of who I am. 'It's moments like this that remind me that while the world may be falling apart there will always be the kind person to help it.

To the woman in Nebraska, thank you for making my day and changing my mind and heart.

You Rock My World, Michael Jackson

The news of Michael Jackson's passing came today as I sat at work, and a music-lover co-worker (Thanks!) called to notify our office. I felt my heart stop and hoped it was not true, but sadly it was. I instantly felt sad and here is why:

Michael has had some issues and media frenzied-controversies the past few years. It seemed that lately anything he did was deemed as "crazy" or questionable. I can see both sides of the story, but as we all know, one cannot know the whole truth until you have walked in their shoes. Anywho it seems that Michael had gotten the resources necessary for his huge comeback, his UK concerts. I was excited that he was going to once again show the world of his talent and innovations, but sadly he will never get to show that. This then leaves his name tied to recent events and he was never given the opportunity to prove otherwise. For now he will entertain the masses in heaven and finally receive some peace.

As I got in my car to go home tonight, one of the saddest Broadway songs started playing on my satellite radio. I shed a tear or two as I reminisced of his impressive songs, dancing, and memories;

• In the 4th grade going to the local roller rink and skating to Black to White with my cousins. It was the highlight of the night since I hated roller skating
  
• Dreams of hosting a game show with a taped opening of "Wanna Be Starting Something"
• Saving my money so that I could go buy his most recent album... on cassette tape.
• On family vacations, my cousins and I would imagine Michael and Lisa Presley's conversations.
• Spending a summer night in junior high to watch The Wiz, just because Michael was in it. Even though some parts were super long, I told myself I could not fast-forward it because of his influence on it.
  
• Spend many moments having dance parties, and when his songs came on instant bursts of energy filled my soul, no matter how tired I was.
  

I will miss you Michael! Thanks for good times, tunes, and memories. May you and your family be comforted at this difficult time.