Positive websites and videos that celebrate MJ

[tu_michael1985]

Those are great sources! Thanks a bunch!!!!!!
If anyone can read Vietnamese, pls come to my site:
http://www.tumichaelshop.com/category/bai-viet-tham-khao/vua-nhac-pop/

 

[Maria MJ]

I am amazed at the extent and deapth of these testimonials. Thank you so much MJJLaugh for bringing it all to focus.
Although a thorough research like yours means hard work, I'm pretty sure there is abundance of evidence..Michael is one of the very special people that graced our planet.

:wub:

 

[MJJLaugh]

Pop Superstar Michael Jackson Created Universal Music

San Francisco — Michael Jackson, the larger-than-life American singer widely referred to as the “King of Pop,” died unexpectedly June 25. He was in the final stages of rehearsing for a run of 50 sold-out arena concerts in London set to begin in July, with additional international touring to follow.

As news of Jackson’s death spread worldwide, a deluge of tributes emerged — not just from the singer’s home country, but from diverse international sources as well. Former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung, for example, described Jackson as “a hero of the world,” reported the New York Times, while the Nelson Mandela Foundation, created by the human rights activist and former president of South Africa, stated, “His loss will be felt by fans worldwide.”

Nowhere was the global impact of the singer’s death more evident than on the Internet, which exploded with Jackson-related news following the event. YouTube quickly displayed tens of thousands of homemade tribute videos; one particularly unusual segment, showing more than 1,500 inmates in a Philippines prison performing the signature dance from Jackson’s groundbreaking Thriller music video, spread virally, receiving more than 28 million views at the time this article was written. There were news reports that Google News, a leading search engine, initially received so many “Michael Jackson” requests that its computers mistakenly believed it was under automated cyberattack.

The power of Jackson’s music to unite fans from around the globe — seemingly regardless of their political, religious, ethnic, or socio-economic differences — remains unparalleled. “My parents don’t know much American music,” said Rajneil Singh, a 23-year-old whose family immigrated to the United States from the Fiji Islands in the 1970s. “But they know all of Michael Jackson. He transcends not just cultures, but generations — the old people are just as sad as the young people. There aren’t many artists who can have that sort of impact.”

THE MAN AND THE MUSIC

Mandela and Jackson walking together (AP Images)
In 1999, Jackson met with Nelson Mandela (left, foreground) and donated profits from two shows to the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.

Jackson crafted a trademark musical style that earned him massive success. “You could say that it was pop or that it was rhythm and blues, but it really was a unique-sounding hybrid,” said Geoff Grace, a California composer who worked for Jackson as an arranger and orchestrator in conjunction with Jackson’s longtime music director, Brad Buxer. “Michael would never imitate someone else’s style. He was always an original.” While maintaining his distinctive voice, Jackson exhibited a wide stylistic range. “There are a lot of acts known for hard-hitting dance music, or for tender ballads, but Michael was known for both,” added Grace. “People might have been interested in him for something sweet like ‘The Girl Is Mine,’ or a harder, driving song like ‘Jam.’ He had a breadth, as well as uniqueness, of style that captured a lot of people’s attention.”

Key to Jackson’s style was the sonic bedrock that Buxer, Grace and others helped create for his recordings and live performances. “A lot of the instrumental sounds used on Michael’s recordings are larger than life, just like everything else about him,” said Grace. Whether recording pianos, drums, synthesizers or strings, Jackson and his production team took great care to produce tones and textures that were edgy and powerful. “The goal was more than just creating a wide, lush, stereo soundscape,” Grace continued. “It was, ‘What can we use to make an impact?’”

Perhaps more important than the music itself was Jackson’s total fearlessness on stage. The singer’s breakout television performance of the song “Billie Jean” for the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, and Forever special in 1983, for example, showcased Jackson’s fiery energy, explosively virtuosic dancing and total commitment to his performance. “Starting in the 1990s, there would be moments when he would just stop and scream during his concerts and videos,” said Grace. “He didn’t hold anything back.”

Jackson grew up in the spotlight as the youngest member of the Jackson 5 singing group, performing with his four older brothers and achieving stardom as a child. And though this early experience can explain much of the appeal Jackson would later develop as a solo artist, other factors contributed as well. “Michael Jackson transcended boundaries,” said Jason Burwen, a world-music radio disc jockey and graduate student in international public policy. “Pop music is about being popular, and he appealed to people with different backgrounds. He was not just music — he was, in and of himself, a fantasy, and people were into that.” Grace echoed the sentiment. “There was nobody who was even remotely like Michael,” he said. “He didn’t fit into anybody’s stereotypes of anything. And people wanted to know what made him tick.”

Indeed, Jackson’s life on and off the stage was one of spectacle and controversy, inspiring both adoration and revulsion from the global public. Jackson’s lavish California “Neverland Ranch,” for example, housed a zoo and amusement park, while his dramatic, plastic surgery-induced appearance changes attracted morbid fascination from fans and media alike. “He was larger than life, and nobody thought he was really human,” said Burwen. “So when he passed away, it was a huge shock. Nobody thought he could actually die.”

Michael Gallant, a musician, composer, producer and author living in San Francisco, serves as senior editor at Keyboard magazine.

The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of State.


Source:

http://www.america.gov/st/peopleplace-english/2009/July/20090708153044maduobbA0.994198.html

 

[Miche]

Love it all!! and I SHOULD take more time to thank you more often!

I would never think or know how to research all these fantastic and amazing articles you bring here!

:shakehands:

 

[4veryoung]

The Children of The World Project
We Are The World

In Memory of Michael Jackson

"I had thought that song should be sung by children. When I finally heard children singing it on producer George Duke's version,? I almost cried. It's the best version I've heard." - Michael Jackson (Moonwalker)

Join The Children of the World Project on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Children-Of-The-World-Project/302935767877

As my radio alarm clock went off one morning in March of 1985 I was awakened by the pure voice of a child singing the words, "We are the world. We are the children." In my groggy state, I remember thinking to myself that I wish I had thought of that obvious idea: A children's version of the worldwide anthem - We Are The World.

Then, as I gained consciousness, I realized that the "child" I had heard was, in fact, Michael Jackson and what I was listening to was the original recording.

I sprang out of bed and called my producer. That afternoon, on my KMGG Radio show, I shared my vision of gathering the most talented children in Los Angeles and giving them the opportunity to do their part for the charity created to benefit those starving in Ethiopia - USA For Africa.

The response was overwhelming to say the least, with hundreds of parents and kids calling and wanting to be a part of the idea.

The Children of the World Project was born.

When Michael Jackson, who had penned the song with Lionel Ritchie, heard about the project he immediately gave it his blessing and even suggested his talented nieces, Brittny and Valencia Jackson, audition as well. They did and appeared on the recording

After several weeks and with the help of countless volunteers, including my friend and entertainment professional, Roger Neal, we had auditioned over 1500 children in various locations throughout Southern California. Every effort was made to make each child, ages 5 to 17, feel special about what and why they were auditioning. Everyone was presented a certificate and t-shirt commemorating their participation.

I contacted award winning producer, George Duke and asked if he join us. He not only accepted, but brought in legendary musicians, Stanley Clarke, Phillip Bailey, and Journey's Steve Smith among to play on the track.

After personally calling every one of the 50 who were chosen (and you can imagine their enthusiastic reactions), under the direction of musical pro Martha Woodhull, the choir then spent several weeks rehearsing their parts.

Sonny records with Stacy Ferguson AKA Fergie

In addition to these incredibly talented voices, we added another group of child stars with the understanding that everyone would be treated equally, regardless of their name or credits. This had been the same policy adopted by the original cast of We Are The World. This group included, Drew Barrymore, Danielle Brisebois, Alyssa Milano, Danny Pintauro, and others.

Then, on April 27, 1985, one of the finest children's choirs ever assembled walked into the Westlake Studios in Hollywood and recorded "the chlidren's version" of We Are The World.

Every note was also filmed for a video of the song. I couldn't stop thinking about the 1400+ kids who had not made the group and suggested that part of the video include them all. It was agreed we finished our filming at LA's Griffith Park where every child in the world imaginable was represented by hundreds of young singers including those who where blind, deaf, or otherwise handicapped. We wanted to show that when it comes to giving, there are no barriers. Everyone can participate.

Keep in mind that our production in the studio and on location, not to mention the countless of hours of planning, would have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Yet, every need was filled by donations, equipment, and scores of industry production specialists.

The result can be seen below. It is, to this day, my proudest charitable and professional endeavor.

The following year we were notified that our version of the song had been nominated for a Grammy. Through the power of radio (before the Internet) and the effort thousands of caring, giving, and loving human beings, the words that Michael Jackson, gave to the world - "We are the one's who make a brighter day, so let's start giving" took on new life and meaning by The Children of the World.

They not only gave to help their starving brothers and sisters, they also paid a special tribute to "a child of the world" - Michael Jackson.

Sonny Melendrez,

*Note: If you or someone you know participated in this project, please

let us know. Every effort is being made to find those who were touched

by the experience for a special 25th Anniversary television project .

For more information, please visit

www.ChildrenOfTheWorldProject.com

 

[MJJLaugh]

Being Different

Have you ever felt different from everybody else, not fitting in, feeling akward and insecure ? How is, that nearly everyone gets to experience this feeling, but we all think that we are the only ones who feel that way ? The opposite of feeling different, or being different, is the joy you feel when you meet a like-minded soul with whom you can truly connect on levels you didn't think possible.
We all know the famous quote by Michael "When you start performing at the age of 5 you're automatically different."
In these words you can hear the loneliness and the longing for acceptance and unconditional love. His words made me think and write about being different. What struck me when I searched google with the words "Michael Jackson being different" I found a lot of negative, derogatory and critical things on Michael. Only when I saw the word "unique" did I realize that it's not about being different, it's about being unique - embracing all of who you are, acceptance of oneself and standing tall, head held high, because you are beautiful just as you are. You are worthy to be loved and shine in your full potential. Just be yourself and be unique!
~ MJJLaugh



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How are we so "different"?
If "different" is just a thing.
If we all have certain features,
What does "different" bring?

People filled with hatred,
Can't possibly see,
That there's not really "differences"
Between you and me.

Looks can't show "difference",
If they're just there to be seen.
If you don't look like someone else,
Why are they so mean?

If being "different" is what is wrong,
I'd rather not be right.
And I'd want to finish living,
Doing the "different" fight.

Be what you are. This is the first step towards becoming better than you are.

Folks may call you different, they may say that you can’t win, but it’s not what’s on the outside – It’s what you have within!

I make excuses for everything in my life, I’m not perfect and I’m glad because I think that would make me extremely boring.


Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.

‘Common sense means living in the world as it is today; but creative people are people who don’t want the world as it is today but want to make another world.’
~ Abraham Maslow


‘The reasonable man adapts himself to the world as it is; the unreasonable man tries to change the world to what he wants it to be. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.’
~ George Bernard Shaw


‘If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.’
~ Henry David Thoreau



Almost by definition, a creative person, working on new things must not only see things differently, but also be different in many other ways. This may not make life easy, but then nobody said that the creative route led to luxury and riches. It does, however, require the strength of character and courage to stand alone, to go against the tide of criticism.
~ Anonymous


Why Is Michael Jackson Unique ? His Voice!


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Why Is Michael Jackson Unique ? His Voice pt. 2

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Sources:

http://100-poems.com/poems/life/1096001.htm

http://www.coolnsmart.com/being_yourself_quotes/

http://creatingminds.org/quotes/being_different.htm

 

[MJJLaugh]

Michael's Gift

Thank you, dear Michael
For sharing your magic
Your wonderment of all things sacred
The moon and the stars
The mysteries of the universe
Your appreciation for beauty and innocence
And your childlike awe at the miracles of nature
As if you were seeing it all for the very first time

Thank you, dear Michael
For inviting me to be a child again
To experience the reverence forgotten
To hold a caterpillar in the palm of my hand
And giggle at the way it tickles
To imagine what lies beyond the stars
And to know that anything is possible wherever you are

Thank you, dear Michael
For the gift of your light and your love
Your heart and your soul
Have become a part of me
Thank you for helping me to feel again
For bringing me back to my heartspace
Reminding me that all that really matters in life
Comes from the heavens above
That music is the only true language of love
And all of creation sings her song

Thank you, dear Michael
For sharing your enchantment
For making it possible to dream
To believe in magic and moonbeams
And to know what you know…
That everything is exactly as it was created to be
And all we need do is open our hearts
To see with new vision what is already there

Thank you, dear Michael
For your message to a world in sorrow
An evening’s sunset
A colorful rainbow
Or a shooting star
To remind us that you are always here
And even from afar
You are guiding us toward a better tomorrow

12/30/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

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Source:

http://mjreflecdtionsheart2heart.blogspot.com/2011/01/michaels-gift.html

 

[MJJLaugh]

Brooke Shields Compared Michael Jackson to "The Little Prince"

Some of my favorite quotes from the book by Antoine de Saint-Exupery:


Grown-ups never understand anything by themselves, and it is tiresome for children to be always and forever explaining things to them.


Grown-ups love figures. When you tell them that you have made a new friend, they never ask you any questions about essentail matters. They never say to you, &#8220;What does his voice sound like? What games does he love best? Does he collect butterflies?&#8221; Instead, they demand: &#8220;How old is he? How many brothers has he? How much does he weigh? How much money does his father make?&#8221; Only from these figures do they think they have learned anything about him.


If you were to say to the grown-ups: &#8220;I saw a beautiful house made of rosy brick, with geraniums in the windows and doves on the roof,&#8221; they would not be able to get an idea of that house at all. You have have to say to them: &#8220;I saw a house that cost $20,000.&#8221; Then they would exclaim: &#8220;Oh, what a pretty house that is!&#8221;

&#8220;Well, I must endure the presence of two or three caterpillars if I wish to become acquainted with the butterflies. It seems that they are very beautiful.&#8221;


&#8220;When he lights his street lamp, it is as if he brought one more star to life, or one flower. When he puts out his lamp, he sends the flower, or the star, to sleep. That is a beautiful occupation. And since it is beautiful, it is truly useful.&#8221;

Long-time fans of Michael Jackson remember some 30 years ago when his friendship with Brooke Shields was a gossip magazine staple. Rumors flew, and there was speculation about the extent of their relationship, but both Shields and Jackson have always been adamant that it was a strictly platonic friendship.

Shields wept when she spoke at Jackson's memorial service on Tuesday, referring to their "most natural and easiest of friendships." She went on to compare her friend to the character in the classic children's book, The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

First published in 1943, the book tells the story of the little prince, living happily but all alone on a small planet. Alone, that is, until the wind plants the seed, which grows into a single rose. The boy is enchanted with the rose, lavishes attention on the flower, who in turn torments him, demanding more and more. The story follows the little prince as he goes from planet to planet, searching for a friend.

The central lesson of The Little Prince is love and responsibility for another, and how they go hand in hand. Although thought of as a children's book, the story speaks to adults and children alike. The prince, naive and untouched by the world we know, seeks to learn what is important in life, and does - love makes all things unique, and if it changes how we look at the world, the pain of saying goodbye is worth it.

During her tribute, it was obvious that Shields was remembering her old friend, the innocent and childlike Michael Jackson, not the tormented man that he seemed to have become in recent years. She referred to one of the most loved and quoted lines in the book:

"Here is my secret. It is very simple: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

Sources:

http://www.examiner.com/books-in-ka...compares-michael-jackson-to-the-little-prince

http://www.freewebs.com/shirtsleeves/quotes/littleprince.html

 

[MJJLaugh]

In 1996 Michael Visited Amsterdam and Wanted to Buy a Barrel-Organ

First a bit of background information on the instrument Michael saw and wanted to buy then and there:

A fairground organ is a pipe organ designed for use in a commercial public fairground setting to provide loud music to accompany fairground rides and attractions. Unlike organs intended for indoor use, they are designed to produce a large volume of sound to be heard over and above the noise of crowds of people and fairground machinery.
For more information please click here

This picture was taken on September 25, 1996, when Michael arrived in Amsterdam. I'd like to think that he saw the fairground-organ and motioned enthusiastically to his film crew to film this

This is the barrel-organ or fairground organ that was playing at Schiphol airport to welcome Michael to Holland[. The name of that particular fairground-organ is "De Arabier" ( The Arab)

During his career Michael Jackson has repeatedly visited the Netherlands. In 1997 Michael was in Holland for the first time when the Jacksons appeared in the popular music show "AVRO's Toppop". Also in 1979 they were invited to that show.

As a solo artist Michael Jackson performed several times in De Kuip in Rotterdam, 1988 and 1992. The Dutch Railways (NS) had to deploy extra trains for the fans to bring them to the Feyenoord Stadium.

Meanwhile, his popularity continued to grow. In 1996 at the beginning of his HIStory World Tour he unexpectedly visited our country for three concerts at the brand new Arena stadium in Amsterdam.Tickets were sold out within three hours.

Jackson stayed more than one week in the Netherlands. The entire city of Amsterdam was turned upside down.

Jackson arrived with his entourage on September 25 with his private plane at Schiphol. The circus surrounding the megastar consisted of 140 men and 480 tons of equipment in two cargo planes. A select group of fans could see how the megastar set foot on Dutch soil.

Jackson walked straight to a Dutch street organ that welcomed him cheerfully. Jackson said that he wanted to buy the hurdy-gurdy. But the star, who was used to buy everything in dollars, got zero on the request. The organ grinder did not want to lose his livelihood.

Meanwhile that day, thousands of fans had gathered at the hotel The Grand at Oudezijds Voorbugwal, where the pop star arrived a few hours later by boat. The crowd behind the barriers was ecstatic when the singer, stepped towards them. Police stopped the star, because the people in the first rows were about to be crushed.

The concerts were a huge success in the ArenA. Thousands of people had installed themselves with sleeping bags the previous night in front of the stadium. On the first night of the concert first aid was given to 120 persons, mainly girls, who fainted at the sight of their idol.

Jackson visited the children's ward of the VU hospital. He handed symbolically the key of the Michael Jackson-room at the Ronald McDonald House, which at that time still had to be built. In the Ronald McDonald House parents and families of seriously ill children can stay.


Fairground Organ Playing Michael Jackson Music





Little Susie - Michael Jackson - Barrel Organ Version





Sources:

http://kingdom-entertainment.webs.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=75824516

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairground_organ

http://www.woudenberger.nl/page/Int...chael-Jackson-zette-ook-Nederland.385068.news

 

[Gregershansen]

Great articles and pictures!

 

[MJJLaugh]

Michael Jackson and the Meaning of Life
by Ian Paul Marshall

“This is the moment. This is it.” Michael Jackson

I think that it’s finally really settled in for me, Michael Jackson is dead. The king of pop, the greatest entertainer ever, is no longer with us.

And no matter what you may think of his personal life or his inner demons, when it came to his fans, to you and me, he gave it his all.

I remember when I first heard Michael Jackson say, “This is the moment. This is it.” I had goosebumps. The Buddha within him had pushed through all the noise within the world and spoken directly to the very essence of my tender heart.

It’s now been a little while since Michael has been laid to rest which got me to thinking about what I’ve learned from this mountain of a man.
What We Can Learn From Michael Jackson The King Of Pop

* Create an experience, not just a song
* Be yourself, no matter what other people think
* Work with others and watch the magic happen
* Believe you can change the world, and use your talents to do just that
* This is the moment, so give it everything you’ve got

Create an experience, not just a song

I can still remember when the Thriller video was launched. It was more than a song, it was an experience, and I wanted to be a part of it.

I counted down the days until the release of that video. And when the day arrived I was glued to the set. Nothing could pry me away from it. And when the video started, I don’t even remember breathing. I was lost in the experience that Michael had created for me.

It was no longer a song. Songs are a dime a dozen. Experiences are different. They last. They stay with us. Experiences become a part of who we are and what we’re about.

So in anything that your doing remember that it’s more than a song, or product, or job, It’s an experience. One that can transform lives.

Be yourself, no matter what other people think

Neverland ranch, Bubbles the monkey, a red leather jacket, a sequenced glove. Michael Jackson knew what he liked and wasn’t afraid of letting us know about it.

Some of his favourite things even became cultural phenomenon’s. I wonder how many people dreamed and wished about owning the red leather jacket he wore in the beat it video.

Michael taught us to be ourselves, even if the world doesn’t understand it. Find out what makes you happy and share that with others

Work with others and watch the magic happen

Whether it was saving the world with Lionel Richie on the worldwide mega-smash-hit “We Are The World”, fighting over girls with Paul McCartney on the hit “Say, Say, Say”, or rocking out with Slash on “Black or White”, Michael Jackson seemed to really enjoy collaborations.

Sometimes it was odd ball pairings like him and Slash, or smooth combinations like Michael and Quincy Jones, whatever the mix Michael knew the power of working with others.

So if your stuck in a rut why not call up a friend and have a “jam” session. Bang out some ideas together. Get the creative juices flowing. You never know what kind of magic can happen.

Believe you can change the world, and use your talents to do just that

We are the world, co-penned by Michael Jackon, as of 2009, has raised over $63 million for humanitarian aid in Africa and the US.

WOW!

So what talents and gifts are you secretly hiding from the world? Is there something that you love to do that you could share with others and make this world of ours a little better?

This is the moment, so give it everything you’ve got

Spike Lee was asked what he learned from Michael Jackson while working with him and he said that it was “Work ethic.”

“I’ve met a lot of great athletes, Michael Jordan recently made a documentary on Kobe Bryant, and these guys are known for their work ethic. And as great as Michael (Jordan) was, and as great as Kobe is, Michael (Jackson) could give those guys a run for their money when it comes to work ethic.”

It would seem that Michael Jackson would pour himself, heart and soul into any project that he was working on. Whether it was a personal project for him, a dance routine, or writing a piece of music for someone else, all his energies became focused like a laser.

Not thinking about the groceries, or wondering about the weather, or what the stock market was like. No, none of that.

Michael was present to the miracle of the moment.

And that’s why he reminded us, “This is the moment. This is it.”

Thanks for the many moments Michael.

Source:

http://ianpaulmarshall.com/michael-jackson-the-meaning-of-life/

 

[Ashtanga]

This thread comforts me. :heart:

 

[MJJLaugh]

Sunflowers

It should not come as a surprise to you that Michael's favorite flower was the sunflower. If you were lucky enough to attend one of Michael's concerts in which he performed Earth Song, you will remember the vivid scenery and the rolling thunder of a tank coming on stage, until the moment when a little girl hands the soldier a sunflower. The soldier breaks down in sobs when he accepts the little girl's peace offering of one sunflower. That is very powerful symbolism!
One of the images of Light-man, to be used in the This Is It concerts, was also entirely consisting of sunflowers.
Then I came across this website and it made me think of Michael and Earth Song:
~ MJJLaugh

The Message of the Sunflowers


Once upon a time the earth was even more beautiful than it is today. The water was pure and deep, reflecting within itself the sunlight which gave life to all the creatures beneath the waves. The earth was green with many kinds of trees and plants. These gave food and shelter to the birds, the animals, and to all mankind. At night the air was so clear that the starlight gave a glow almost as bright as the moon.

The people of the earth lived close to nature. They understood it and honored it and never took more than what they needed from it. The people lived in peace so they prospered and began to build many nations all around the world according to nature’s climate.

But one day a terrible thing happened. A strange spirit of greed entered the hearts of mankind. People began to be jealous of one another, and they were not satisfied with all the good things they already had. The nations wanted more and more of everything: more land, more water, more resources. They squeezed precious minerals from the earth to build terrible weapons to defend their nations from other, greedier nations. They killed one another. They polluted the air and the water with poisons. Nature began to die. This is called war. War is ugly. It destroys love and hope and peace.

Then one day a magical thing occurred. The birds of the air, the animals of the land, and the creatures beneath the waters came to an agreement: if they were to survive, something would have to be done to stop these wars. Only through peace could their world survive.

“We cannot speak the human language,” they declared, “and mankind can no longer understand ours. We must find among us a symbol of peace so brilliant that all who see it will stop and remember that peace and sharing is beautiful.”

“I am what you need,” said a golden sunflower. “I am tall and bright. My leaves are food for the animals, my yellow petals can turn plain cloth to gold, my seeds are many and are used for food by all living beings. Yet, the seeds I drop upon the ground can take root and I will grow again and again. I can be your symbol of peace.”

All nature rejoiced, and it was decided that the birds would each take one sunflower seed and that they would fly over every nation and plant the seed in the earth as a gift. The seeds took root and grew, and the sunflowers multiplied.

Wherever the sunflowers grew there seemed to be a special golden glow in the air. The people could not ignore such a magical sight.

Soon they began to understand the message of the sunflowers so they decided to destroy all of their terrible weapons and to put an end to the greed and to the fear of war. They chose the sunflower as a symbol of peace and new life for all the world to recognize and understand.

A ceremony was celebrated by planting a whole field of sunflowers. Artists painted pictures of the sunflowers, writers wrote about them, and the people of the world were asked to plant more sunflower seeds as a symbol of remembrance.

All nature rejoiced once more as the golden sunflowers stood tall with their faces turned eastward to the rising sun, then following the sun until it sets in the west.

They gave their goodness to the world so that everyone who sees a sunflower will know that the golden light of peace is beautiful.

Copyright © 1999

Dedicated to

the Children of

the World

Who Will Sow

the Sunflower

Seeds of Peace

“Every act
toward peace
is a seed of peace,
and each seed
has the potential
to grow and
inspire others.”

~ David Krieger
President
Nuclear Age Peace Foundation

Michael Jackson - Earth Song - Live in Munich - HIStory Tour 1997

At the 9:00 minute mark you can see the sunflower sequence. The sunflower here represents peace as in the story posted from the website. I pray that all who will come to court proceedings that start on May 9th will show their support in a dignified manner, in the spirit of Love, Peace and Truth.


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Source:

 

[Ashtanga]

Sunflowers

It should not come as a surprise to you that Michael's favorite flower was the sunflower. If you were lucky enough to attend one of Michael's concerts in which he performed Earth Song, you will remember the vivid scenery and the rolling thunder of a tank coming on stage, until the moment when a little girl hands the soldier a sunflower. The soldier breaks down in sobs when he accepts the little girl's peace offering of one sunflower. That is very powerful symbolism!
One of the images of Light-man, to be used in the This Is It concerts, was also entirely consisting of sunflowers.
Then I came across this website and it made me think of Michael and Earth Song:
~ MJJLaugh




Beautiful!!!!!!!! :heart:

 

[MJJLaugh]

Happy Easter


Not everyone celebrates Easter, that is true
Therefore my well-wishes this sunday for you,
Enjoying a day with family and friends
joyously together, a day well spent
~ MJJLaugh


Michael Jackson Happy Easter 2011!






Michael Jackson Good Easter 2011

 

[Ashtanga]

Happy Easter


Not everyone celebrates Easter, that is true
Therefore my well-wishes this sunday for you,
Enjoying a day with family and friends
joyously together, a day well spent
~ MJJLaugh


Michael Jackson Happy Easter 2011!






Michael Jackson Good Easter 2011

:heart:

 

[MJJLaugh]

The MAGIC begins with LOVE - April 25th we're sending out a major love!

Dear lovely MJ-family ? Today's the day! We're sending out a MAJOR LOVE, all across the world, every continent, united in one purpose: to HEAL THE WORLD WITH LOVE! ? ? ? Please join the global wave of healing at 2pm PDT / 5pm EDT / 10pm London time / 23:00 CET (Worldwide Time Chart) and if you can, please, please help spread the word around the fan community So much is happening between now and the next 25th, as you well know. The world needs this energy so very much. We all do. The more of us who send love, the bigger the wave, the more the effect. Our joined hearts and minds do make a difference. We just have to act in unity, as ONE and let go of our daily stresses, set aside anger and negativity, and for some magical moments focus on the truth at the heart of all creation: LOVE. If this is something we can give, let us give it freely.

It might sound cheesy at times (only because we've been made to believe it is , but when we look into our hearts, the truth of love will be there every time. Whenever in doubt, just look deep inside and follow that inner guidance from the heart. It's the seat of the soul, where we know all those things we sometimes choose to ignore. It's where we know that we're ONE in LOVE. But just knowing it isn't enough if we keep it locked up inside as a mere idea. It is in action and service that we take it to another level, where it becomes magical. When we really desire to put our hearts into this truth of love, the path of 'love consciousness' opens up before us. It's then (now!) that we stop just saying the words and we take our first steps into living "WITH LOVE" and making a conscious effort to act "WITH LOVE" (even in extraordinary circumstances). We can now begin sharing this truth with everyone we meet, with the world, spreading love by example. It doesn't necessarily happen overnight. It's a process. We're all a work in progress; a grand and beautiful work of art, forged from love, for the purpose of bringing joy and compassion ... a MAJOR LOVE ... to the world.

We can cover all bases and carry on Michael's legacy of love when we act out of love and in unity, from our monthly and daily prayers of love (changing hearts from the inside out with higher consciousness), to correcting lies and deception in the media, to giving to environmental causes, to helping the children of the world through volunteer work and charitable donations, to all the little opportunities for loving action presented to us each day. Even seemingly insignificant acts of kindness ripple out across the planet and touch more people than we could know. Nothing is too small. Say a prayer for the world, for a stranger, donate some toys to a local children's hospital, hold the door open for the person behind you, take some flowers to a friend, call someone in need or just to say hi. And please, if you're going to be at the courthouse for the Murray trial that starts May 9, do so in a way that will show the world what Michael stands for. Show the world we've understood the message and that we're truly following the path of LOVE (even in extraordinary circumstances).

"You can change the world". You know you can! Michael believed in us, his fans... in you and me, in every one of us, in the children of the world. Can we believe in ourselves and in each other? Can we reach out and take the hand of the person next to us in respect and with love? Of course we can ... when we act from our hearts anything is possible! That's where the magic begins.

Thank you so very much, every one of you who keep this prayer alive. We love you all so much, really.
Sending you a ~MAJOR LOVE~ ?




Source:

http://www.majorloveprayer.org/2011/04/magic-begins-with-love-april-25th-were.html

 

[MJJLaugh]

Spiritual and Magic Michael


Devoted MJ fan, Liz Johnson, is in the process of writing a book. She is bi-lingual, and is writing simultaneously in English and Spanish. Her topics expound on the many facets of Michael. Liz gave me permission to post an excerpt from her rough manuscript.

Chapter II: Getting To Know Michael ~ Spiritual Michael

“Although Michael studied the Bible, and adored and loved Jesus, he ceased to be a religious being to become a spiritual person. Michael understood the fundamental laws of quantum physics, which say we are all interconnected in the Universe. Through many of his lyrics, Michael reminds us to see the magic of God in everything, and shows us that there is a form of energy that connects all of creation. Michael understood and conveyed to us that it is possible to direct this powerful energy with our thoughts and emotions. He used to say: “If you can dream it, you can do it.” – “You become what you think.” Let me remind you that Michael was an avid reader. Through Dr. Wayne Dyer’s and Dr. Deepak Chopra’s books and the friendship they had, Michael learned about the metaphysical Laws of the Universe, SynchroDestiny and Spirituality.

Michael had a holistic approach to human beings. He understood the human being is a whole, encompassing body, mind, emotions and spirit or soul. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul acknowledges the whole person as spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Michael understood the psycho-spirituality, and more, the bio-psycho-spirituality in Holistic humans. The word “holistic” comes from the Greek “holos” which means Union, Whole. The human species is divided into races, nations, political ideas, social classes and religions. Holism emphasizes the need that every individual must make an inner change to achieve a global transformation. Michael knew this, and above all, he knew that the ultimate healing energy is Love.” © 2011 Liz Johnson

Below are a few remarks about Michael, made by some modern day writers and teachers of spiritual topics, who maintained a personal friendship with, and held a special admiration and respect for Michael.

NELSON MANDELA: “When you are behind bars with no hope of release, you need to find strength wherever you can… Personally, I found strength in Michael Jackson.”

DEEPAK CHOPRA: “If you really understood Michael, he was the most innocent, loving, compassionate human being that you could imagine. He was too gentle for this world. The trial really traumatized him, and hurt him and made him even more frail than he was.”

WAYNE DYER: “This was a transcendent being who had not only enormous talent, but a heart as big as the sky.”

From the blog of Dr. Wayne Dyer on 7/10/09, two weeks after Michael tragic death:
Real Magic and Michael
“In 1992 when the time came to write a dedication for my book Real Magic, I decided to recognize three special people—my dear daughter Saje, my spiritual brother Deepak Chopra, and my friend pop superstar Michael Jackson. I wanted to recognize Michael “whose words, music, and love remind us that it is only through giving that we are saving our own lives.” Michael Jackson had a special relationship with the principles of Real Magic, the idea of “creating miracles in everyday life.” With his enormous musical talent, he created a body of work that brought joy to millions. My children and I spent five very happy days with him at Neverland in 1991. He wanted to talk to me about “real magic,” but the truth is, he already had the magic—the power he needed to dream and create and give. Michael was dedicated to ending world hunger and helped create the 1985 “We Are the World” celebrity sing-along that brought together some of the biggest names in popular music to raise funds for famine relief in Africa. I didn’t have to explain “real magic” to Michael because he was already a spiritual being, already kind, loving, and ready to use his musical gift to create miracles. Along with millions of people around the world, I say, thank you, Michael, for sharing your amazing talent to lift our spirits. I’ll remember you as a beautiful human being with a heart as big as the sky.”



Source:

http://michaeljacksonrememberedwithlove.com/2011/04/spiritual-michael/

 

[naz_mijac]

Spiritual and Magic Michael


Devoted MJ fan, Liz Johnson, is in the process of writing a book. She is bi-lingual, and is writing simultaneously in English and Spanish. Her topics expound on the many facets of Michael. Liz gave me permission to post an excerpt from her rough manuscript.

Chapter II: Getting To Know Michael ~ Spiritual Michael

&#8220;Although Michael studied the Bible, and adored and loved Jesus, he ceased to be a religious being to become a spiritual person. Michael understood the fundamental laws of quantum physics, which say we are all interconnected in the Universe. Through many of his lyrics, Michael reminds us to see the magic of God in everything, and shows us that there is a form of energy that connects all of creation. Michael understood and conveyed to us that it is possible to direct this powerful energy with our thoughts and emotions. He used to say: &#8220;If you can dream it, you can do it.&#8221; &#8211; &#8220;You become what you think.&#8221; Let me remind you that Michael was an avid reader. Through Dr. Wayne Dyer&#8217;s and Dr. Deepak Chopra&#8217;s books and the friendship they had, Michael learned about the metaphysical Laws of the Universe, SynchroDestiny and Spirituality.

Michael had a holistic approach to human beings. He understood the human being is a whole, encompassing body, mind, emotions and spirit or soul. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul acknowledges the whole person as spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Michael understood the psycho-spirituality, and more, the bio-psycho-spirituality in Holistic humans. The word &#8220;holistic&#8221; comes from the Greek &#8220;holos&#8221; which means Union, Whole. The human species is divided into races, nations, political ideas, social classes and religions. Holism emphasizes the need that every individual must make an inner change to achieve a global transformation. Michael knew this, and above all, he knew that the ultimate healing energy is Love.&#8221; © 2011 Liz Johnson

Below are a few remarks about Michael, made by some modern day writers and teachers of spiritual topics, who maintained a personal friendship with, and held a special admiration and respect for Michael.

NELSON MANDELA: &#8220;When you are behind bars with no hope of release, you need to find strength wherever you can&#8230; Personally, I found strength in Michael Jackson.&#8221;

DEEPAK CHOPRA: &#8220;If you really understood Michael, he was the most innocent, loving, compassionate human being that you could imagine. He was too gentle for this world. The trial really traumatized him, and hurt him and made him even more frail than he was.&#8221;

WAYNE DYER: &#8220;This was a transcendent being who had not only enormous talent, but a heart as big as the sky.&#8221;

From the blog of Dr. Wayne Dyer on 7/10/09, two weeks after Michael tragic death:
Real Magic and Michael
&#8220;In 1992 when the time came to write a dedication for my book Real Magic, I decided to recognize three special people&#8212;my dear daughter Saje, my spiritual brother Deepak Chopra, and my friend pop superstar Michael Jackson. I wanted to recognize Michael &#8220;whose words, music, and love remind us that it is only through giving that we are saving our own lives.&#8221; Michael Jackson had a special relationship with the principles of Real Magic, the idea of &#8220;creating miracles in everyday life.&#8221; With his enormous musical talent, he created a body of work that brought joy to millions. My children and I spent five very happy days with him at Neverland in 1991. He wanted to talk to me about &#8220;real magic,&#8221; but the truth is, he already had the magic&#8212;the power he needed to dream and create and give. Michael was dedicated to ending world hunger and helped create the 1985 &#8220;We Are the World&#8221; celebrity sing-along that brought together some of the biggest names in popular music to raise funds for famine relief in Africa. I didn&#8217;t have to explain &#8220;real magic&#8221; to Michael because he was already a spiritual being, already kind, loving, and ready to use his musical gift to create miracles. Along with millions of people around the world, I say, thank you, Michael, for sharing your amazing talent to lift our spirits. I&#8217;ll remember you as a beautiful human being with a heart as big as the sky.&#8221;



Source:

http://michaeljacksonrememberedwithlove.com/2011/04/spiritual-michael/

Thanks for this article... Mike was fascinated about magic and illusions, that's the fact

 

[MJJLaugh]

Seth Riggs Talks About Who Michael Really Was


Excerpt from Seth Riggs website:

...Anyone who has ever loved his music knows what an effect he had on our lives, our culture and our souls. He was truly a creative genius and gave his life to the perfection of his art.

I have worked closely with Michael for over 21 years, as his vocal coach and his friend. We have been through countless concerts, performances, rehearsals and tours… but nothing quite like his “This is it Tour”. We worked tirelessly, everyday, as Michael is indeed a true perfectionist. He took every measure to make sure he was prepared for the grueling tour, vocally and in all other aspects as well. It truly would have been a legendary tour.


Seth Riggs on Michael Jackson (iTunes)


<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="853" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/D3GhgHBK288" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>




Michael Jackson voice training with Seth Riggs

<iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mFPmXyiu30k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>




Source:

http://www.sethriggs.com/seth_mj2009_statement.html

 

[Ashtanga]

Excerpt from Seth Riggs website:

...Anyone who has ever loved his music knows what an effect he had on our lives, our culture and our souls. He was truly a creative genius and gave his life to the perfection of his art.

Perfect words.

Michael Jackson voice training with Seth Riggs






Source:

http://www.sethriggs.com/seth_mj2009_statement.html

It's so good to hear. :girl_sigh: :heart:

 

[claudiadoina]

@MJJLaugh Your posts and in fact this whole thread is so emotional exhausting.So much mixed emotions but love and sorrow prevail.

 

[MJJLaugh]

Namaste

The gesture (or mudra) of namaste is a simple act made by bringing together both palms of the hands before the heart, and lightly bowing the head. In the simplest of terms it is accepted as a humble greeting straight from the heart and reciprocated accordingly.

Namaste is a composite of the two Sanskrit words, nama, and te. Te means you, and nama has the following connotations: to bend, to bow, to sink, to incline and to stoop.

Simply put, namaste intimates the following:

'The God in me greets the God in you
The Spirit in me meets the same Spirit in you'

In other words, it recognizes the equality of all, and pays honor to the sacredness of all.

Translated into a bodily act, namaste is deeply rich in symbolism. Firstly the proper performance of namaste requires that we blend the five fingers of the left hand exactly with the fingers of the right hand. The significance behind this simple act in fact governs the entire gamut of our active life. The five fingers of the left hand represent the five senses of karma, and those of the right hand the five organs of knowledge. Hence it signifies that our karma or action must be in harmony, and governed by rightful knowledge, prompting us to think and act correctly.

By combining the five fingers of each hand, a total of ten is achieved. The number ten is a symbol of perfection, and the mystical number of completion and unity. It is true for all ancient traditions. Ten is the number of the Commandments revealed to Moses by God. In the Pythagorean system, ten was a symbol of the whole of creation. Ancient Chinese thought too thought of ten as the perfectly balanced number.

Namaste recognizes the duality that has ever existed in this world and suggests an effort on our part to bring these two forces together, ultimately leading to a higher unity and non-dual state of Oneness. Some of these dual elements which the gesture of namaste marries together and unifies as one are:


* God and Goddess
* Priest and Priestess
* King and Queen
* Man and Woman
* Heaven and Earth
* Sun and Moon
* Sulfur and Quicksilver (Alchemy)
* Theory and Practice
* Wisdom and Method
* Pleasure and Pain
* Astral body (consciousness) and Etheric body (sensation)
* Mind and body
* Pneuma (spirit) and Psyche (mind)
* Conscious and Unconscious
* Objectivity and Subjectivity
* Extraversion and Introversion
* Intellect and Instinct
* Reason and Emotion
* Thought and Feeling
* Inference and Intuition
* Argument and Experience
* Talent and Genius
* Silence and Cacophony
* Word and Meaning
* Katabolism (breaking up) and Anabolism (building up)
* Right side of body (warm) and Left side (cool)
* Front side of body (positive) and Rear side of body (negative)
* Brain and Heart
* Sahasara Chakra and Kundalini
* Insulin and Adrenalin
* Linga and Yoni

There is indeed no sphere of our existence untouched by the symbolic significance of namaste.

Namaste!






Source:


http://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/namaste/

 

[MJJLaugh]

Love Around the World


Michael was all about love. If I could use only one word to describe Michael with, it would be LOVE. He emanated love everywhere he went and told his fans "I love you more!" arranging blankets and pizza's for fans waiting outside hotels to get a glimpse of him when it was cold and windy outside.
Michael has inspired me to look very honestly at my own life. And I humbly bowed my head in shame sometimes, wanting to do good, be good, but getting carried away in the moment. When you realize however that we are all spiritual beings having a human experience, it allows you to look beyond the small and big differences. Despite our vastly different backgrounds we all need to be loved, to feel loved and respected, to be treated with dignity, kindness and compassion.
Many years ago I worked in a new department and the people there did not like any kind of change, including new staff members. I always persevered in my belief that in essence they were good and kind, it just wasn't showing ( to me) yet. And yes, they turned around and warmed to me eventually.
Love can pierce any wall of resistance, and break that wall down, just persevere and live in love and light, like Michael did!
~ MJJLaugh

Love Defined

What is love, but an emotion,
So strong and so pure,
That nurtured and shared with another
All tests it will endure?

What is love, but a force
To bring the mighty low,
With the strength to shame the mountains
And halt time’s ceaseless flow?

What is love, but a triumph,
A glorious goal attained,
The union of two souls, two hearts
A bond the angels have ordained?

What is love, but a champion,
To cast the tyrant from his throne,
And raise the flag of truth and peace,
And fear of death o’erthrow?

What is love, but a beacon,
To guide the wayward heart,
A blazing light upon the shoals
That dash cherished dreams apart?

And what is love, but forever,
Eternal and sincere,
A flame that through wax and wane
Will outlive life’s brief years?

So I’ll tell it on the mountaintops,
In all places high and low,
That love for you is my reason to be,
And will never break or bow.

- Matt Dubois -

Love Around the World

<iframe width="640" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fF8EFxSeFQ4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>



Source:

http://www.lovepoemsandquotes.com/LovePoem18.html

 

[Ashtanga]

^^^




Sooooooo beautiful! :heart:

 

[MJJLaugh]

Kelly Rowland: 'Michael Jackson Loves Destiny's Child's Bootylicious'
He can't get enough...
August 28, 2008 by Jason Gregory


Kelly Rowland: 'Michael Jackson Loves Destiny's Child's Bootylicious'


Michael Jackson is obsessed with the Destiny's Child song 'Bootylicious', according to former member Kelly Rowland.

Rowland said the R&B trio, who are currently on hiatus, first discovered Jackson was a fan when he sung their lyrics to them.

"He came up to us singing the lyrics to our song 'Bootylicious',” she explained. “We just stood there like dumbstruck fans, with our mouths open in shock."

Michael, Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Rowland, Solange Knowles and Michelle Williams



Destiny's Child - Bootylicious ( Michael Jackson live)

Destiny's Child performed "Bootylicious" for Michael at his 30th anniversary at Madison Square Garden on September 7th, 2001. Look at Michael's face at 2:19, he's clearly enjoying the show!

<iframe width="640" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IaAUIbrqR94" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>




Kelly Rowland on Michael Jacksons most inspirational songs

<embed src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:uma:video:mtv.com:530650" width="512" height="319" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashVars="configParams=vid%3D530650%26uri%3Dmgid%3Auma%3Avideo%3Amtv.com%3A530650" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" base="."></embed><div style="margin:0px;padding:4px;width:500px;text-align:center;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><a href="http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/rowland_kelly/artist.jhtml" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">Kelly Rowland</a> - <a href="http://www.mtv.com/ontv/" style="color:#439CD8;" target="_blank">MTV Shows</a></div>




Source:

http://www.gigwise.com/news/45684/Kelly-Rowland-Michael-Jackson-Loves-Destinys-Childs-Bootylicious

 

[ManuMJ]

Thanks for the links and videos

L.O.V.E ?

 

[MJJLaugh]

Jackson's Kindness Recounted


A dying Tulsa boy loved meeting, playing games with the star.
By CURTIS KILLMAN World Staff Writer
Published: 6/28/2009 2:28 AM

David Smithee, a 14-year-old Tulsan, poses for a picture with Michael Jackson in April 1984. Smithee, who had cystic fibrosis, got to meet Jackson through the Brass Ring Society, an organization that fulfilled the wishes of terminally ill children. Smithee died in May 1984. Courtesy

Karen Wilson was traveling back to Tulsa from a business trip when she heard the news that Michael Jackson had died Thursday.

"It brought back some wonderful memories of my son and how special Michael Jackson treated him," Wilson said. "His loss was terrible, and his death brought up a heavy heart."

It was in 1984 when her 14-year-old son, David Smithee, who was terminally ill with cystic fibrosis, met Jackson at his California home.

The visit was part of a weeklong California trip for David made possible by a nonprofit organization that fulfilled the dreams of terminally ill children.

During the afternoon visit at Jackson's Encino, Calif., home, David watched a movie with Jackson in his home theater, played video games and learned how to moonwalk.

Of the video games, David told a Tulsa Tribune reporter, "I played two games with him and beat him both times."

The visit was topped off with Jackson giving David the red leather jacket he had worn in the "Beat It" video and a beaded glove he had worn to the American Music Awards, where he collected eight awards.

David wore the jacket and glove home on the plane to Tulsa, his mother recalled.

"He was just in heaven," Wilson said.

David, an eighth-grader at Nimitz Junior High School, went straight to the hospital after arriving home, his mother said.

While in the hospital, David showed visitors the jacket, glove and pictures of himself and Jackson, Wilson said.

David died one month later.

"Michael Jackson gave us the happiest last month of our lives," Wilson said. "(David) died very happy."

The visit must have made an impact on Jackson, too; he later dedicated the Jackson 5's "Victory" album to David.

Wilson continued to follow Jackson's career after her son's death. She remains an adamant defender of Jackson, who faced rumors and accusations of inappropriate behavior with children.

"Despite everything that was said of him later, we saw none of that," Wilson said. "I never, never, never believed any of it. He was alone with my son a lot and never did anything ever happen.

"I never really believed any of that."

Wilson still has all the pictures and memorabilia from their visit with Jackson.

And she still has the jacket and glove.

"They are under lock and key," Wilson said. "But now they've become too fragile to take out and touch too much."

Ironically, Wilson was dancing to a Jackson song Wednesday night while at a convention during her business trip. The song gave her the opportunity to tell others about her son's meeting with Jackson. "I still, when a Michael Jackson song comes on, my heart still pounds," Wilson said.

Source:
http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=11&articleid=20090628_11_A1_DavidS991085

 

[Ashtanga]

^^

Beautiful story! :wub:

 

[claudiadoina]

Inner Michael Messages

Awaken and Sparkle

Michael whispered to you through his music and art while you were sleeping. "Awaken," Michael says. "Awaken and be who you truly are. Let the real you Sparkle and make this world brighter."

There will always be those who drink from a different fountain. Their fountain and its contents will not nourish. They may drink the Kool-Aid of materialism, gain, greed, sensation, titillation, excitement, stimulation, ego puffing, all kinds of physical, mental and emotional gratification and all the illusions that the world has to offer until they no longer do.

They will engage in theft, addiction, darkness, sexual deviancy, destruction, metaphorical cannibalism, and the endless search for the orgiastic state until they realize their mistake. They are in the desert and they thirst. They are spiritually parched, dry, shriveled. They will do anything to make themselves feel better. Wouldn't you?

So what did Michael and other master teachers say about this? Did he say destroy them? Fear them? Kill them? Dispatch them? Disabuse them? No! He said love them. They deserve our pity for they are miserable. They don't have enough love. Would you want to be them? Have you forgotten that you once came from there? From that same illusion? Better to shine a light than to curse the dark. Heaping more darkness upon them is not going to help. Better to invite them to the light.

So I am not saying that you should take everything they are dishing out. I am saying to have compassion for the state they are in. Invite them to step beyond themselves. Hold space for their awakening. Understand that they do not love themselves enough and because they don't, others won't. It is all resonance, after all.

They don't like their own "music" and who they are being--and they are living in that soup. I am not saying to live there with them or to allow them to darken your doorstep. I am saying invite them to be more. The only difference between them and you is that you have begun to awaken and they are still sleeping. They have not awakened to their metaphorical "Inner Michael." Condemning them is not useful for it will only serve to turn them away and back into the dark and it will dim your light.

I am also not saying that this is easy. It takes work to pull it off and to stay in the love frequency all the time. But if we can do it more than not do it, we contribute to the light in the world instead of the shadow.

Appreciation is a form of love; it lives on the same wavelength as love. Only the intensity is different. If we can find a way to appreciate who they are being, we open a space for them to evolve even more. Condemning them is an attack and will only help them contract more and shrivel more into their own darkness. Appreciation opens a space for them to let in the light. Even if it is just appreciating how truly creative they are with their darkness, it will change the vibe for us and for them.

Someone wise once said: "it is just as foolish to expect that people will not change as it is to expect they will." Can you feel that? It is important to hold space for them to try on something new. Change is hard for everyone. Old habits create an illusion of security. We cling because we are afraid. If we feel someone is loving us while inviting us to try it on, we feel that support and make feel safer stepping out into new territory.

When I say that this practice is not easy, I mean that. It is important to not hold yourself in contempt if you forget or if you contract into your own defensiveness. Because of our interactions with the world, we mistakenly think we must "protect" ourselves. This is an illusion. There is nothing to protect, no one to protect against and certainly no one to protect.

We are not our ego. We are not even an individual; we are one. And we are not who we think we are most of the time. Who you really are requires no protection.

Do we forget that? Yes. Is it important to work on it? Yes. Do we fail or forget sometimes? Yes. "But I'm only human!" And it's OK to be human. Just remember how far you've come. If you forget, square your shoulders, take a deep breath and try again. Everybody wants to be loved; everybody wants to feel L-O-V-E. Michael knew this. It hurt for him to love sometimes but he did it anyway. Can you love on behalf of Michael, for Michael? Will you do it?

Blessings and Peace,
Rev. B
"One Wordsmith" at Inner Michael