Thousands of people the world over, possibly millions, died today.

I only know about two of them: Farah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.

I knew Farah Fawcett by name only. I didn’t watch the original Charlies Angels and I don’t believe I ever saw her in any other TV shows or movies.

Michael Jackson, on the other hand, wrote the soundtrack to my youth (at least until I discovered rock and heavy metal). They called him The King Of Pop. When I was a kid, as far as I was concerned, Michael Jackson ruled the world. His dancing skills, song writing and all round ability as a performer set him apart in my mind. He was probably the person I came closest to idolizing in my childhood.

I’m sad today for a number of reasons:

• Three children lost their father, very suddenly. I don’t care what people say about his parenting skills, he was their father and they will miss him every day for the rest of their lives
• I wanted to see Michael Jackson in concert (selfish, I know)
• I took and took and took from Michael Jackson and what did I give him?
  • I gave him money in the form of royalties on the CD’s I bought
  • I gave him fame, as did most of us
  • I gave him nothing of lasting value though

I am sad today because I don’t know where Michael Jackson has gone for now and all eternity.

I took from him. Even just the other day I was showing my kids MJ videos online, giving them an education in great music and performance. I didn’t, however, do anything to give him the one thing that is of true value and importance.

I probably wouldn’t have had any chance to share the good news with him, but did I try? Did I even pray for a chance?

No.

… and for that I feel deep sorrow today.