Michael Jackson Memorial

It sure has been an amazing day when it comes to remembering Michael Jackson.

One of the reporters commented that the family said about the memorial service that was to be broadcast on TV, “We don’t want a TV Show, we want a memorial.” In my opinion that is exactly what transpired.

Once again Michael brought the world together in a moment in time as he did time and time again through his music. Today the world not only mourned the passing of Michael Jackson, they also celebrated his accomplishments. There was laughter, tears, and many insights as to what was important to him personally.

The interviews of celebrities, fans and TV “specials” went on throughout the day. All seemed to me that the thread of everything said was his influence was overall positive. I think his music absolutely pointed in that direction and his accomplishments through his foundation and numerous other ventures also changed the world and “Made it a better place for you and for me.”

The “media blitz” will probably continue for weeks to come, but today the world came together for the celebration and the memories of one special person, who in many ways was just like you and I. We all have our own special talents and even though some of us aren’t super stars, “We are the world” and we can change the world working as one toward a common goal.

My message for Michael comes from the theme of Bob Hope’s TV show, “Thanks for the memories….”

Finally I think the one song that describes the message that Michael wanted to world to understand is “You are not alone.”

Memorial Day 2009

This is a day when we honor all the service men and women who gave their lives and served in the military for this great country.

My father served in World War II in the U.S. Army as a medic and was captured in the Battle of the Bulge. He was captured because he stayed behind to take care of the wounded during the battle. After the war he was an active member of the P.O.W. movement to recognize and honor all P.O.W.’s. He also was an active member in the National World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

My son served in Iraq in the U.S. Navy aboard the carrier U.S.S. Washington and is now back in the U.S. and is no longer in the active Navy, but is still in the Naval Reserve.

So to all those families who have had their loved ones serve in the military I say “God Bless You!” and know that they will be honored forever.

When talking with my father and son the one thread they both share is nothing was going to stop them from completing a cause they believed in. They both were will to give their lives, if needed, to complete their mission.

My father is no longer with us, but after the war he went on to live the “American Dream” and continued serving the public in the county court system back in N.W. Indiana.

My son now is pursing the “American Dream”. He and his wife now have a new son and live outside of Chicago.

Being able to live “The American Dream” comes from all those service men and women who put their lives on the line to protect us and keep the “dream” alive.

I have nothing to add at this time.