"Never Can Say Goodbye..."

II Samuel 12:23
"But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me."

These are the words of King David after the death of his infant son.

I use them for Michael Jackson because he indeed was the eternal child. Always curious. Always playful. Always believing that the best was still to come.

I remember playing with Michael's children as he looked on. We shared a laugh that big kids laugh when they watch the unlearned joy of little ones playing -- oblivious to headlines, paparazzi and muckrakers.

My time spent with Michael always brought about a host of questions from my friends and colleagues who were also fans: "Does he really have that skin disease? (yes)", "Is his voice really that high? (most of the time until he would go straight GI (Gary, Indiana) on you)", "Yo, G, you think he's a pedophile? (No. Just a showbiz juggernaut who was always trying to recapture his childhood)."

Now of course for an infinite number of days Michael's life will be analyzed, scrutinized, demonized and canonized. Like Elvis and Tupac, he will be seen darting through supermarket parking lots and wearing his trademark disguises while watching a summer blockbuster.

However from my faith tradition the words of King David tell the real story: The Thriller, the manchild who lived among us for fifty years won't be coming back to do a Redemption Tour. Ed, Farrah and Michael a strange trinity who ruled pop culture won't, of course, be coming back, but we all one day, my friends, shall go to them. Love ya Mike. See ya in the bye and bye...

Follow Rev. Gregory Seal Livingston on Twitter: www.twitter.com/gslivingston

Comments

[BelindaBlue]

Wow! Such great memories of Michael Jackson by so many. And Rev. Livingston, how fortunate you were to have shared such an intimate moment with him. Well, unlike many other fans, I'm not indulging in the "Michael is dead" syndrome. I'm not a fan of the word "Dead." The word is always extended and conceived in a very sad way, and it shouldn't be. Michael has simply become physically powerless. Cheer up! The blessing of his energetic spirit of talent, the beauty of his soul, and the depth of his love has not been compromised. None of us will physically exist forever. And physical powerlessness should never be accepted as unexpected. The timing may not be appropriate for us ( family, friends, business associates, and fans), but it's perfect for God and Michael. God knows what's best. I've never met Michael. But we have the most important thing in common; we were created by the same God. We are all God's children. I love Michael and what he brought to the table of life. I'm still happy when I think of him, and all the hope, and excitment that he extended to our lives. Belinda Blue

[Cherubim]

Thank you.
I WILL NEVER SAY GOODBYE TO MICHAEL JACKSON.
Click and Enjoy
Michael and his brotheres sing "Never Can Say Goodbye"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GveM_95x56k

[elce]

Rev. Livingston a very poignant analysis of a polarizing and fascinating performer.

[ywilsonfnp]

Way to go "cuz"! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and words of encouragement during a time when many people are dealing with the loss of this wonderful man, in their own way... for me, growing up with the sounds of the Jackson Five, I can remember my brother Joe would take his allowance every week to run out a buy a "45" record for us to listen to.... Michael Jackson was truly a blessing in our lives then and continued to be as we all became adults.... I am so sad tonight.... keep sharing... may God bless you. Tren

[diak0n0s]

Yes Pastor, very nice.

Do you know if MJ was saved or not?

[ywilsonfnp]

Hey Greg!
Great reflection and memorium! I am so saddened by the loss of this wonderful man... your words were timed perfectly! Continue to share your memories. Tren

[randyleearnold]

Thank you Reverend for your words of comfort. As a 48 year old, I grew up with the Jackson 5, then of course Michael's incredible music . . . Never Can Say Goodbye - indeed. His music will stay with us forever. While I mourn his sudden passing , I mourn losing a piece of my childhood and youth. However, earlier today, I realized like you shared with us . . . it's a reminder of our own mortality and we each individually have work to do . . . no matter how long we are on this earthly plain. So we must make haste and enjoy the time we have here creating joy and love and to leave the world a better place. BRAVO MICHAEL ! WE ARE THE WORLD.
Randy Lee Arnold

[situationcritical]

Thank you for that.