Michael Jackson: A treasure for the world…Michael Jackson was a role model for me. His music allowed me to escape my immediate circumstances of dealing with loneliness and isolation.
I felt like a very young child, adjusting to a new family, in the summer and fall of 1983. At the time, Michael Jackson's Thriller album calmed my soul with its classic hits : Billie Jean , Beat It and, of course, the title track.
Whenever I was feeling down, I would go to my room, turn on the stereo, close my eyes and enter an imaginary world, where I was the artist to perform on stage.
I carefully watched the choreography by Michael Peters, who orchestrated the tap dance captured in the Beat It video . I had every step under control while I sang along with Jackson.
Everything had to be perfect, because I was acting right in front of Jackson. For there was that poster of him, with the brown leather jacket, hovering above my bed. With Jackson watching, I had to be on point. After the performance, I felt better.
I imagined that I, too, would one day have my moment to shine under the heat of the spotlight.
The stage where Michael Jackson performed always seemed to be the place where people focused their attention exclusively on him. It was the place where people shouted, applauded and shouted their praises. I wanted it because it seemed to be love.
I knew it was possible for a black boy to command that level of attention and respect because of Jackson. And so, I dared to dream. I started to visualize what was possible for my life.
Michael Jackson may have made his physical transition from Earth, but the treasure he leaves behind is eternal. His talent, art and the barriers he has overcome are a testament to all we can do when we choose to follow the passion and purpose that live within us. ''
Anaré V. Holmes, North American writer
Source: MJ Beats
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