Icons & Idols - Michael Jackson

It had been a long week at work already, although it was only Wednesday, and I was feeling a bit down, tired and already stressed. The holidays just have a way of doing that sometimes. Feeling the pressure of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the twist commercialism puts on Christmas is just wearing sometimes. This is the time of year when we should be filled with the most joy and celebrate the birth of Jesus, his LOVE, his peace. I was just leaving work and contemplating the bah-humbug Christmas poem a friend had shared with me about working our tails off, running here and there to keep up with the Joneses, shopping, parties, functions, dinners and on and on with stress as the main course served up daily for the last month of the year. It was then my cell rang and on the other end I heard the high, excited exuberance of my dear friend telling me “Betty, You just HAVE to go to Julien’s Auction House in Beverly Hills. They have SOOO much Michael stuff on display. YOU JUST HAVE TO SEE IT!!” She went into detail about her day seeing MJ’s belongings and suddenly, magically as Michael has done so many times I felt my whole being change. Michael just has a way of doing that to those who love him. I most certainly couldn’t deny I wanted to see anything… simply ANYTHING… that belonged to Michael up close and personal, but there was a gnawing in the pit in my stomach. My heart began to ache, like so many times before, as I thought of what Michael endured over the last two decades of his life. Those that wanted what was his, those that used him, the hangers on, the opportunists, the greedy, those that plotted, planned and put into motion schemes that would lead ultimately to Michael’s death. In that process many items which belonged to Michael had vanished, apparently showing up at auctions and then disappearing again.There has been so much controversy and speculation about where Michael's belongings have gone.

Holding a private conversation with the main man in my life I prayed, “Dear Lord, are these some of those items and if so what gives me the right to go and gaze upon them?” Encouraged by my friend’s exuberance I simply felt I needed to go and see for myself the next day. One of Michael’s gold fencing shirts from the Dangerous Tour was on display. That in itself was the final straw… the magnet that drew me toward Beverly Hills. I placed my desire to see MJ’s items, my car and the California freeways in the Lord’s hands and asked Him to guide me there, as I set out on my Michaeling mission.

Once the car was parked which was an adventure in itself and I might say to the inexperienced here, be forewarned you need to take a fist full of bills to park in Beverly Hills, I made my way to my destination, as I opened the doors and entered from the cold, dark night into the warm, bright light of the showroom, it seemed as though I stepped into another time zone. Yes in fact it was the Julien’s Auction show room zone. The nicely suited attendants greeted me and an invisible force drew me to the display of the “Beat It” jacket, the sequined glove, make up case and so much more than I can list. Most all items signed personally by Michael Jackson. I looked at his famous signature and thought of Michael’s hands, and seeing each item the thought that he had touched, used or had worn almost every item there suddenly hit home. An attendant walked with me and I asked the burning question in my heart, “Where did all these things come from?” As I looked around and witnessed with my own eyes he assured me “Almost every item here was signed my MJ and given freely to people as gifts or to auctions by MJ, to be sold to raise money for charity because that is just how Michael Jackson was. He was always giving away his things to make people happy.”

Now I was drifting from display to display effortlessly, no more stress, or holiday pressures… what holiday? I had now entered the world of Michael Jackson’s closet as I gazed at his jackets, jumpsuits, hats, “The Belt” he wore on his 45^th birthday, this belt along with many other items designed and tailored by Michael’s very good friends, Michael Bush and Dennis Tompkins, a sequined white glove, and YES the gold fencing shirt... which… oh yes indeed… I smelled! Up close and personal I sniffed this outfit. YES… that’s right, I freely admit it... I smelled MJ’s fencing shirt and I have to say… but can’t be sure… I may have detected a hint of Bal a Versailles. Ok… I know only a die hard MJ fan would go sniffing for traces of MJ’s sweat and cologne, but then how many times does someone like me get to see up close and personal the stage costumes or clothes of Michael Jackson?! Was it just wishful thinking… another sniff… No I really think it…

I took many, many pictures. I asked to see the secret backroom. The Executive Director, Martin Nolan, who was lovely to me and so much fun to joke with, wanted to know how I knew about the secret back room. I told him I couldn’t reveal my sources… only that, “Fans just know these things.” He shook his head at me, not for the first time that night, rolled his eyes and we laughed and then he asked one of the attendants, Allen, to escort me to the back room. Others, Julien family members, who were working there also came along as they were surprised to learn about the back room items as well and wanted to take a gander. To my surprise on display were full sized, soft rubber, wax looking statues of Indians and cowboys, which MJ had set up in the Indian Village at Neverland near the train tracks. I must say the Indian sitting cross legged with the peace pipe made me step back. He was a bit scary looking but I am sure in the outdoor, tee pee setting he fit quit well. They were simply amazing to view, like a secret peek into Michael’s longing for his boyhood and his wonderful childlike, fun imagination.


Returning to the main floor the pedestals outfitted with MJ’s jackets were being strategically placed for Saturday’s auction, a world wide event where anyone, any where can bid on items by phone, online or in person. The chairs were in place, the sound system was being set up, podium at the ready, display cases lit and organized, computers were up and running. There were many items from other iconic legends like Marilyn Monroe, Rock Hudson, Madonna, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, The Beatles and many, many others. The jacket… I mean “The Jacket” that John Lennon wore on the Sgt. Peppers album was on display and was later to sell for $240,000. It was amazing to see this piece of history from my teen years up close and personal…and did I detect a hint of Marijuana, good ole’ Mary Jane on this one? So many cool and interesting items… yet I continually was being drawn back to MJ’s things.

John Lennon's Sgt. Peppers Jacket:



My friend who had raced against time and rush hour traffic to arrive before closing popped in the door and I greeted her with a big hug. The stress of the road melted from her shoulders as we began to peruse the displays together and take more pictures of one another. We posed grinning from ear to ear next to MJ’s “Beat It” jacket. I was so thrilled to see a jacket from the world’s BEST Super Bowl half time show EVER signed by Michael and a game football signed by both Michael and Troy Aickman, an original Michael Jackson doll from the 80’s with the original price tag of $14.95 on the box, gold records, platinum records, J5 memorabilia signed by all the Jackson 5, The original Motown contract the J5 signed as children, This Is It tickets, Victory Tour memorabilia, a signed Smooth Criminal hat, a Hungarian military hat signed with a written note from Michael saying “Thanks for your support. All my love, Michael Jackson, 1994”, there were 3 black, stage worn, signed fedoras with Michael’s name printed inside, and the Julien’s Auction catalog from April 25, 2009 signed in gold by Michael Jackson. This one stopped me short and my heart sunk, as I read the date and realized, two months later to the day Michael lay dead. I felt a wave of nausea come over me and I felt the anger rise. Still there is NO justice! God hear our prayers!






The Julien’s director, Martin, allowed me the privilege of roaming the displays with the catalog in hand. I was juggling the camera, the catalog, my purse and sweater when I realized the other catalogs were chained down and then asked how much they were. He smiled and said “For you, $100.” I laughed and then made my way back to the desk and gingerly put it back on the stand like I didn't want to break it. As I set it back on it’s easel he said to me, "I have one just for you." I thought again he was joking and meant if I paid the 100 bucks. Later just before I left he handed me a catalog with both hands and slightly bowed like he was handing over the crown jewels to the queen, royally presented me with a catalog. I felt very much honored and thanked him. Later the next day checking online I realized he wasn't joking they really do cost $100. All I could say was “Wow!! It was definitely my night!!” If you are reading this Martin, again I thank you for your generous kindness.

I had taken 100's of pictures, a fact that Martin did not miss and approached and commented in his Irish brogue, “Well gone are the days when the Instamatic took 24 pictures and that was it and you had to take them into Rite Aid or the drug store for development.” I realized suddenly maybe I was crossing boundaries saying “Oh I’m sorry! Do you want me to quit?” He laughed and said “No you go right ahead and take your pictures. I guess then all that photography we worked so hard on in the catalog is not good enough?” I then revealed “Well I write stories and like to use my own pictures.” He laughed out loud and shaking his head again gave me a jovial, “Oh! NOW you tell us!”

MJ fans are still fiercely protective of MJ, his children and mother, so after checking out every last item including the back room three times I went to the main desk where Martin was working and where Darren Julien was standing close by and again voiced my concern about the source of all the MJ items, with an ache in my heart for MJ I inquired of Martin, “Please answer this question for me. I need to know, are any of these things taken from MJ? What is the source of all these items? What about the family?” He assured me saying “All items are donated and they were gifts from MJ to fans and friends. Some were items MJ donated, when he was alive to other auctions to raise money for different charities and causes. They did not sell and were returned to Michael Jackson and are now in this auction. Some are from the family, the estate and Katherine and the family all gave their blessing, all except Joe. The items belong to others and were freely given on consignment for this auction.” There have been many false rumors and it felt good to hear the family had given approval for this auction, well all except Joe, so for me it was the majority. I believe it is just like that in large families, not all members agree on everything or join in each venture. It was also very clear that the vast majority of items displayed for auction were clearly signed and had been given to others by MJ and that supported Martin’s statement.

Then Martin began to tell me about the previous auction at the old Robinson’s May in Beverly Hills where Michael’s beautiful, ornate Neverland gates were being offered, as well as many other items from Neverland. I had heard several media rumors about these items. I felt so blessed to hear from someone who personally had witnessed these very gates being restored to their original home at Neverland. Martin assured me that “The Gold Gates” were reinstalled at Neverland. That he personally was present on the property at Neverland to witness the restoration, sadly and ironically the very weekend of the week Michael died the gates were reattached to their original place of honor at Neverland. They are there and working just as they did when Michael lived there.

A sudden burst of hope leaped in my heart spurring me on to ask, “MJ’s Carousel?” Martin’s response filled me with even more hope and again put to rest yet another untruth as he assured me, “You know MJ himself hand painted some of the horses on that carousel. It has special meaning. MJ made sure to dismantle it and store it carefully in a warehouse on Neverland where it still is today, untouched.” My heart was over flowing and like the unashamed MJ fan that I am I blurted out, “Really? Oh my God! It’s STILL there? Really there? At Neverland?” which elicited Martin to reveal, “Yes, there is a huge, massive warehouse on the property at Neverland where MJ’s things are stored. Safe and protected.” Astounded I slapped the desk happily and heard myself exhale with great enthusiasm, “Thank God! Another rumor put to rest! There are so many false rumors!” I then thought about the other Neverland treasures that had also been on auction like the train and all the bronze statues MJ so lovingly collected and had displayed about Neverland. I had read they were all gone now, just a memory of past glory days. I needed to know, “What about all the bronze statues that had been on auction? Were they sold? I read they are all gone now.” Martin’s quick emphatic response dispelled all previous stories as he said “No, NONE of them were sold. They were returned to Neverland and are also in storage.” In a ‘Need to Know’ voice I added, “And the train? What about the train? Michael would not have wanted to sell the train!” He again emphatically replied “No. The train was never on auction. You know Michael named that train after his mother, Katherine?” I shook my head up and down as he continued, “He would never sell that train. It was special. No, it too is stored away.” So many rumors went…puff… up in smoke, vanished in one short conversation. Maybe the one positive rumor of Neverland being restored is not so impossible after all. Yes in my heart and mind there is definitely hope now. I do not want to think about the people who partially own Neverland now or how they were involved in anything horrible that happened to MJ… yet that thought looms large in my mind. My hope and prayers for MJ3 are that all that is rightfully theirs will be restored to them.

It was a great evening at Julien’s Auction house in Beverly Hills. Every one of the people who work at Julien’s are wonderful, warm, friendly and accommodating. I smiled all the next day every time I thought about MJ’s belongings still safely stored away and that I was able to be so close to so many items MJ owned, wore, performed in and gave to others in love. It’s a funny thing when someone dies how their belongings become so much more important. It was like that with my mom…just a piece of her near me. MJ’s generous giving heart was so apparent in many of these items, and in every signature I saw. The thought of how many thousands of times he must have signed his name to make others happy just makes me love him all the more. Of course thoughts of how wonderful it would be for the MJ3 to be able to acquire Neverland and all of their father’s belongings, which really should rightfully be theirs anyway, allowed for hope to spring anew. I know Michael was so crushed at Neverland and expressed his deepest hurt about that when he said “I won’t live there again. It’s a house now. It’s not a home anymore”, but this was the children’s first home with their father and in protecting them MJ never let them see his broken heart and spirit while living there. For them I am sure there will always be many wonderful Neverland family memories.

Two days later I contemplated if I should attend the Saturday auction personally or take part from home on the computer. I opted to save the headache of parking and stayed home. As I watched and listened I wondered how the auctioneers were able to get so many words, facts, and details out so quickly. Although the internet auction was full of energy and moved quickly through thousands of sales I thought Michael’s section would never come, finally the time arrived. His section was last and certainly the most exciting. Even over the internet I could feel the mood become very much energized as the auctioneer’s voice rose and he exclaimed, “Now we have Michael Jackson’s items. Michael Jackson had a relationship different than any other entertainer in the world with his fans. MICHAEL JACKSON, the greatest entertainer of all time and he will NEVER be replaced! Michael Jackson who transformed music! You see why he transformed music and why he was the KING OF POP! Nobody will EVER be like him! Everything he did he did to be the best!” Although I have no idea if this man is an MJ fan, even sitting at my computer I felt he was a kind person who truly loved MJ and who also knew my heart and the heart of fans around the globe. I felt a rush as I witnessed the first flurry of bidding on the 4^th item, a signed black and white, 8x10, glossy picture of the Jackson 5, soared quickly to sell for $10,625.

I thought, “Ok… Heerree we go!” I was not disappointed. I simply couldn't resist and bid on several items but was out bid which my wallet and budget thank God for. My MJ love wishes so much I would have won. I about died as I noticed the gold fencing shirt was coming up just two more down on the list. I reached for the key board to be ready, grabbing it randomly I hit a key and suddenly the screen read in bright green, “You are the top bidder” and I realized in shock I was now accidently bidding on a 2^nd Neverland Golf Cart. The 1^st one had sold for only $1,200 so in my clumsiness I just put myself in the running for the 2^nd one at $2,250. Quickly realizing the other one went for less, I prayed “Dear Jesus, please let someone else bid. I really don’t need a golf cart!” In slow motion the auctioneer began to say in a parent “Peanuts” voice “Theeee… wiinnnner… issss…” then my prayer was answered and someone else bid, with many others jumping on board, a flurry of bids took place making the winning bid $8,750. Of course it could have been much worse and I could have accidentally bid on a $40,000 item. I would have just fallen out right then and there with no one around to revive me, in the end though, once the shock wore off, I actually felt sort of sad as I thought about taking the grand kids and friends on rides in MJ’s Neverland golf cart. How cool would that have been?
I was shocked to see that the gold fencing shirt only brought in $37,500 as I had really expected to see it sell for much, much more. The highest item sold was the white, sequined glove which was sold to an international bidder for $330,000, chills covered my body as I watched the flurry of bids on this one. Not to demean MJ’s love for mankind or in anyway compare dollar signs to love but I just couldn’t help but see in all this the love and attention from fans all over the world for Michael.
Oh how I pray MJ sees how much he is loved and thought about as he watches down from heaven. It was all very interesting but several times I could not help but think about how MJ would feel about this auction. I just kept feeling like maybe MJ would have wanted all this money to go to charity…. as Allen, the attendant said, “…because that is just how Michael Jackson was.” Yes the facts prove Michael Jackson was one of the kindest, most generous, caring humans on this planet. We will be missing you forever MJ!

A random sample list of great items with end sale prices:

3 black, stage worn, signed fedoras:

1 - $53,125

2 - $31,250

3 - $72,000

White Smooth Criminal, stage worn fedora, signed: $72,000

Hungarian military hat, signed: $8,960

MTV award statue: $72,000

Helmsley Palace doorman’s jacket which MJ wore many times, signed: $31,250

Bubbles’ MJ matching racing outfit, signed: $9,500

Beat It Jacket, signed: $96,000

Beat It sheet music signed by MJ, signed: $6,500

Studded, Bad, black leather arm guard: $31,250

Military style jacket MJ wore when he met Nelson Mandella, signed: $60,800

Gem encrusted football bag, gift to MJ by Katherine Baumann, with MJ’s name: $1,750

MJ’s make up case, signed: $5,760

The belt MJ wore for his 45^th birthday party: $12,800

Promotional Invincible sign, signed: $1,664

Neverland Valley T-shirt, signed: $1,500

Michael Jackson doll, original box, signed: $1,625

I am so thrilled to know that two wonderful Michael Jackson fans were the winners of the both of these amazing items. The Neverland T-shirt signed "Love, Michael Jackson" and the studded belt Michael wore on his 45th birthday!! It is so wonderful to know these treasured items will be cherished for all time by people who love Michael Jackson!!!!

Deborah Soroky from Glendale, California wins the Neverland T-shirt signed by Michael!!

Final winning auction price: $ 2,100

Debbie Jackson from Auckland, New Zealand wins the studded belt
Michael wore to his 45th birthday party, final winning auction price: $12,800!!

Michael Jackson's History - A Lesson in LOVE & Truth

Michael Jackson at Gardner St. Elementary School dedication 1989




Michael Jackson made history in so many ways and on so many levels throughout his entire career and this week a group of determined fans with huge hearts of love for their beloved King, those who felt that this wrong must finally be made right, gave him some history in return. It was a VICTORY for Michael Jackson and it was also a wonderful example of what professional, intelligent, calm demeanor, fortitude and a spirit of love and respect along with much prayer can accomplish. Miracles!

Friday, October 15, 2010: Michael Jackson's name is uncovered. Thank you to Jennifer Marino, Blessy and the Uncover Michael Jackson's Name Campaign team and everyone who persevered to make this a reality for Michael Jackson. Also thank you to everyone who wrote letters and signed the petition. This is proof that what little we do CAN make a difference for Michael. Results!

The School Superintendent said: "In recognition of Michael Jackson’s musical legacy and contribution to modern culture." Also a school district spokesman said... the decision was made in large part because Jackson had been acquitted of criminal charges in the molestation case. Please read the details of the LAUSD announcement below. TRUTH prevails!

I had been privileged to be a part of a group of fans which had just been at the school the previous week to walk the neighborhood streets, talk to residents and store owners and gather signatures for the Uncover Michael Jackson's Name Campaign. These signatures and the letters from all over the world were being placed into a binder for an upcoming meeting with the school board. When God moves he moves swiftly and as God would have it Michael’s name was uncovered before that meeting took place. God’s faithful servant, Michael Jackson, is now once again and so rightfully honored at the Gardner St. Elementary School in Hollywood.



Saturday, October 16, 2010: I just had to see this sweet sight with my own eyes. So I went to the school today and simply could not contain my joy, could not stop smiling. Traveling to Hollywood I listened to MJ sing his heart out asking us to “Make That Change!” My heart was so full as I traveled to see That Change. It is over cast but for me those silver letters are bright as the sun. What a beautiful sight!!





While taking my pictures an open air Star Tour bus stopped and the driver told the tourists, "Here you see the "Michael Jackson Auditorium". This was dedicated to Michael Jackson and there was a big event that day and Michael was present. His name was covered years ago and now thanks to fans who campaigned to have his name uncovered Michael Jackson's name was uncovered this week." Then the driver asked me if I was a fan and I said, "YES! JUSTICE FOR MJ! VICTORY!" and gave them the peace sign or victory sign in this case, that Michael gave so many times in his life. The tour guide gave me the peace/victory sign in return. I smiled big, I simply could not stop smiling. Thoughts of the day the auditorium was first dedicated to Michael and how happy he was fill my mind. I picture him smiling back from heaven at this glorious sight. Can you feel him smiling? Can you feel it?

Moments later a van filled with 20 something guys drove by and I heard them excitedly calling out to one another "Look it's there!!! MICHAEL JACKSON'S AUDITORIUM!!" "Wow!" "COOL!" "They did it!" Neighbors walking by smiled and nodded at me as I took my pictures. I am not sure if they realize why I am smiling but I choose to believe they know it is about Michael's name gleaming on the building I stand in front of.

I continued taking pictures from different angles when I realized how fitting it truly was to see MJ’s name so silvery and shiny overlooking a school yard where children play. His name looks down on what looks to be hop-scotch grids and there is a loose soccer ball which escaped being put away at day’s end. I hear the children laughing and playing in my mind and again I picture Michael’s beautiful smile, the twinkle in his eyes as they light up at that sound. I even hear him giggle. So fitting too there are golden, yellow roses in full bloom just to the right of the auditorium doors. Later I learn why this feels so special to me. Michael himself had a rose garden planted at Gardner St. Elementary School. Now these roses bloom just below his name as a remembrance of Michael's special gift to the school. The paint around MJ’s name needs refreshing as the building looks to have been painted a few times since the boxes were installed. The bright part to that is the boxes preserved the integrity of the silver letters all these years. Oh how I wish Michael could have been here to see this day, to see this hurtful wrong made right.

I thank God for answered prayers. This may be a small step toward the justice that Michael Jackson so deserves but this small event is so huge to us fighting and praying for Justice for MJ. We are encouraged and I pray it especially encourages and blesses Michael's family. It was Mrs. Jackson’s involvement along with Taj Jackson who finally opened the hearts of those who signaled the removal of the covers over MJ’s name. God bless you Mrs. Jackson and Taj Jackson. Myself along with many, many others pray for your family and for Justice for Michael everyday. This is only the beginning of so many wrongs that need to be made right for the legacy of Michael Jackson. We continue to strive for TRUTH.

Mrs. Katherine Jackson released this statement, October 15, 2010:
"After a number of heartfelt conversations between me, my grandson Taj, family friend Jodi Gomes, and LAUSD, I am overwhelmed that the school will proudly bear my son's name on its auditorium once again. This could not have been done without the tireless dedication of my son's fans and specifically the wonderful members of the "Uncover Michael Jackson's Name Campaign"

"Determined spirits fired by unquenchable faith in their mission can alter history." ~ Ghandi

VICTORY for MJ! ♥♥♥ We Are His Voice Now!!

MJ quote about his female fans ~ "Yeah, they are loyal, women. They have been loyal. They are activists. They will fight you about me."

Los Angeles Unified School District Press Release:
MICHAEL JACKSON’S NAME ON DISPLAY AGAIN AT GARDNER SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

Elementary School’s Most Famous Alum Recognized for His Musical Legacy

October 15, 2010

Los Angeles — The silver, foot-high letters gleam once again, proclaiming The Michael Jackson Auditorium at Gardner Street Elementary School in Hollywood. It is the last public school attended by Jackson—then an 11-year-old sixth grader — who was the lead in a singing group with his brothers. Three months after school started, Motown released their debut album “Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5.” And, the young entertainer was on his way to becoming an international star.
“It’s important for the District to value the artistic impact and humanitarian contribution that will be the lasting legacy of Michael Jackson,” said Los Angeles School Board member Steven Zimmer. I’m happy that we will be recognizing and appreciating Michael’s LAUSD moment.”
The sign was originally unveiled at the then newly-refurbished auditorium in 1989. However, when the King of Pop was charged with child molestation, the sign was covered with layered board. For the record, the entertainer was never convicted. After his death last year fans began a campaign to have his name revealed.

At the direction of Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Ramon C. Cortines, the tribute was uncovered today.

“In recognition of Michael Jackson’s musical legacy and contribution to modern culture I have directed our maintenance and operations department to remove the layered board covering the tribute to Mr. Jackson at Gardner Street Elementary School in Hollywood,” said LAUSD Superintendent Ramon Cortines. 

How The West Was Worn by Michael Jackson

It was August 29^th, 2010, Michael’s 52^nd birthday. Each day since Michael Jackson’s death I have thought about him. Today along with a couple of beautiful MJ fan friends we have decided to attend as many Michael Jackson events in Southern California as we possibly can to celebrate the life of Michael Jackson. I am elated because I don’t have to drive, being directionally challenged it is a joy to have someone with GPS, a good sense of direction and knowledge of California freeways transporting us from place to place.

First on the list is The Autry Museum with Michael Jackson’s new exhibit “How The West Was Worn by Michael Jackson”. I have been impatiently waiting to see this exhibit after seeing Michael’s good friends Michael Bush and Dennis Tompkins on the news talking about how he had personally approved of this project. This exhibit had Michael’s blessing and he, himself, hand picked personal donations for the museum. Also unlike the Grammy Museum this exhibit is permanent. The ladies with me are true Michael Jackson fans and in true ‘Michaeling’ form we left the ceremony part of the event to sneak in early to the exhibit when no one else was around to see MJ's clothes. They were AMAZING!! I took many pictures of every last detail and angle of each item, each just so fascinating to me, especially the shoes. However I truly wasn’t ready for the sense of emptiness I would feel at seeing his clothes so close and feeling he should still be alive, should still be here, in them. I am only one of millions who wish we had the power to turn back time and bring Michael Jackson back.

We spent at least a good 10 to 15 minutes alone looking at the exhibit. The security guard took our pictures with no one else present, telling us “Picture taking is allowed today only for the birthday of Michael Jackson.” Then just as we had finished taking pictures everyone came flooding in from the ceremony. So we escaped the throngs and moved on out to the front of the museum. My friends decided to stop at the crowded, ladies room, and I decided instead to meander over and nose around the gift shop.

This is another one of those God ordained Michael moments I have come to look at as little gifts from God for honoring his faithful servant. I had just started poking around when I heard men’s voices near me. I casually looked up to see who was talking and standing there RIGHT in front of me were Michael Bush and Dennis Tompkins. I said "Michael Bush! Dennis Tompkins! Oh My Gosh! HELLO!" Thinking back now I get a real chuckle about this “long lost friend” greeting to two people I had never met before. The very first thing that struck me about these two wonderful men was how amiable, gentle and kind they seemed. I found myself leaning against the counter where they stood and just openly talking like I had known them for years. I paid them well deserved compliments for the breathtaking, beautiful and amazing exhibit. Then asked them both about MJ’s participation in the exhibit and MJ’s knowledge of The Autry requesting his items for exhibit. They both gave an agreeing nod toward me and freely shared about MJ’s contribution and his feelings about this exhibit at the Autry. Dennis Tompkins nodded again as Michael Bush said “He was so excited they wanted a part of him... and Country Western… he loved this stuff.” He went on to share MJ had talked at length with them about what clothes to use and creating the exhibit and it was something he really wanted to see happen. Michael Bush said, in fact, Michael was so excited he said to him over and over, "They want a part of me! They want a part of me!!" Standing there talking to these two loyal, loving friends of Michael’s I felt as though I was at the end of the rainbow. I have never been a fan type person really, but personal stories about Michael Jackson are like gold to me. I will treasure this encounter with these wonderful men forever.

I stood there chatting with them for quite a while and inquired if Michael had kept in touch with them on a regular basis or if Michael had contacted them from Bahrain when he was away. Michael Bush smiled and chuckled and became animated as he shared “Oh yes. He called all the time from all over the world. His phone bill was ENORMOUS! Just HUGE! There would be times he would just call me from the back seat of his car while traveling and sing to me. Just sing something he had in his mind and say “Tape over” and hang up. That’s it! Just sing, say “Tape Over” and hang up.” I smiled openly picturing MJ in the back of his Escalade calling Michael Bush and singing over the phone some perfect little bit of a song that was running through his genius mind and thought what an incredibly privileged lot in life Michael Bush was destined to live as friend and confidant to Michael Jackson.

All three were so modest and self effacing. The most wonderful time was talking to Michael Bush one on one, off to the side and we discussed Michael in concert. He said "Oh Yes, when Michael was on stage he was total energy! So much energy!" Then he said "Well did you know he glowed?" I said "So it is true what Orianthi and others said about him glowing?" Then Michael Bush said and I will never forget this, "Yes Michael glowed. He glowed. He could light up a room, a stage, an arena. You could be standing in a room alone and with no sound, he would enter and the feeling in the room would change. You could just feel him. You could have your back to him and you knew he was there with no words. He lit up the room." I pictured MJ and his beautiful face and I know my eyes were so wide open as I blurted out "Oh my God! How can a person do that? ONLY God could have done that to Michael!" Then he was called away to the autograph table but as he walked off he looked me in the eye, smiled, nodded and said "YES", and then again looked back at me smiled and nodded again saying, "YES." I felt as though he knew, I now knew the essence of Michael. It was an amazing moment.

Karen Faye arrived and all the fans began to buzz and greet her. She too is a beautiful, gentle and kind lady. I looked at all three of these special people knowing from talking to Michael and Dennis just moments earlier they had all been very close friends of Michael’s for over 35 years. Michael Jackson loved them all very much. I was standing in a room with people who were part of Michael Jackson's heart. Yes each had a job to do for him but it was more than that, they truly, deeply, cared for and loved this man. I could see the same quiet reserve, spirit of love, gentleness and kindness in each of them, that same quiet reserve, spirit of love, gentleness and kindness that Michael Jackson emulated throughout his life. I could see why Michael kept them so close and trusted them beyond measure.

I was so impressed with Karen Faye’s grace. As the three friends sat together later I could also see their friendship and camaraderie but beyond that I could feel and see the heartbreaking grief and ‘missing of Michael’ heavy on their hearts and wondered how they have survived such pain. This realization only made me admire them more.

Dennis and Michael had shared with me that the gift shop had items for sale in honor of MJ’s exhibit and a portion of the proceeds would go to help support Tippi Hedren’s wild life sanctuary, “Shambala Wild Animal Preserve”, where Michael’s cats from Neverland now reside. Although not fair to the tigers, my heart sank as I thought about MJ’s cats out living him, especially since tigers have a much shorter life span than humans, another clear reminder that MJ should not be gone from this earth.



Michael Jackson's Tigress, Thriller, doing the Moonwalk.

I bought the hardbound book, “Michael Jackson A Life In Pictures” from the “How The West Was Worn by Michael Jackson” display for them each to sign and was thrilled later when Karen who had taken her time and thought a bit before signing, beautifully wrote “To Betty, LOVE Turkle” with a large heart under her name. I know it was a little thing, this signature, but I felt very blessed to read this later and felt a bit of Michael in that signature, for this was MJ’s favorite nick name for Karen.

I continued to just stand and observe all the hoopla and frenzy, in between getting pictures with all three. They clearly were not accustomed to the limelight and Michael Bush who does not like to be photographed, joked about taking a picture of people taking his picture and then did just that in one of the group photos. It was very interesting to watch all three of them interact with the fans. Both Michael Bush, who seemed very shy, much like MJ, and Dennis Tompkins said to me at one point “We aren’t used to all this attention. We have been behind the scenes all these years. We have never been the ones signing autographs. That’s what Michael did. We are more comfortable behind the scenes.”

Later as all three sat at the autograph table they all three laughed and shared with us about how much more comfortable they were doing MJ’s makeup, dressing him, getting him all ready and then pushing him out the trailer door while they stayed behind.

The fans slowly diminished, leaving enjoy birthday cake and watch the Thriller Zombie dance but I could not pull myself away from this moment in time. It was quiet inside once again. Karen was still standing and signing autographs for a few fans but Michael Bush and Dennis Tompkins were sitting at the autograph table next to where I stood. It was fun to watch and listen to them banter good naturedly back and forth. I stood around a bit more observing until almost all fans were gone and then I too left for the festivities.

I saw them in the court yard before they left taking in the crowd from behind the scenes where they are most comfortable. It was a wonderful experience I will always treasure. I felt like I had touched Michael Jackson, just a little in shaking their hands. Those hands that touched Michael Jackson so many times over the years as they dressed him, tailored clothes for him and applied his makeup. Those hands that dressed MJ and made him up for the very last time, their dear, precious friend Michael Jackson, those hands that lifted him so lovingly into the coffin. My heart breaks for these lovely people. They are truly kind and gentle souls. It was so amazing meeting Michael Bush, Dennis Tompkins and Karen Faye. These three loving people took pain staking steps to care for and love Michael Jackson for more than half his life. This was a day, a moment in time, I will never forget.

If you would like to support the care of MJ’s cats you can copy and paste this url into your web browser. You can buy coffee, the Roar Blend :)) or just donate:

http://www.shambala.org/
 
(Update as of 2015... Thriller has passed away from Cancer. Sabu still resides to live out the rest of his life at Shambala)

Holly Terrace Sunflowers

 
The beautiful little girl with pigtails jumped from her mother’s arms
with glee and ran to the door of Holly Terrace,
eagerly peering through the crack.
Just at the end of the long corridor,
if you looked just right, you could see a noble, marble crypt.
The sun was hitting the Ascension stained glass window
and the entire scene was filled with glorious light.
Many, many more bright and glowing sunflowers
adorned this kings resting place.
A beautiful breath taking sight and outside was a
veritable forest of sunflowers
lined up by the doors to the Kings resting place.

Suddenly she turned to look at her mother with a
shocked and stricken look on her face shrieked,
“I can’t see him! I can’t see him! He isn’t there, Mommy!!
I want to see him!!

Why can’t I see him? Where did he go mommy?”

She began to sob, uncontrollable, inconsolable, heartbroken sobs.

She ran back to her mother’s comforting and safe arms and
held on tight and just cried.

The adults all stood there unable to breath, unable to speak,
grappling for the words

to try to console and explain… yet there were none.

Yes this little angelic baby she said it all.

We can’t see him, our King, we can’t see him.

Why did he have to go?
Our hearts are broken still.

Suddenly a grown up notices and points to a discovery,
back inside the sunflower forest just resting at the base of the sunflowers
is a tiny angel someone has left for Michael, our King.
It rests and sleeps guarding the King’s door.
The child is consoled at last and content
to wander in the sunflower forest but continually,
apprehensively looking toward the door
where her King can not be seen.

How do you explain death to a child?

Her mother says “She doesn’t understand.
She LOVES Michael Jackson and

she sees him sing and dance on TV.
She can’t understand why she can’t see him now.”

We the adults grasp at answers as well and can only nod our heads.
Yes how do you explain the death of Michael Jackson?
Unfathomable.

Forever in our hearts.

How strange that all these tears
could not wash away the hurt!

Then one thought of love pierced my bitterness.
I remembered you in the sunlight,
with a smile as sweet as May wine.
A tear of gratitude started to fall,
and miraculously, you were back.
Soft fingers touched my check,
and you bent over for a kiss.

“Why have you come?” I whispered.

“To wipe away your last tear,” you replied.
“It was the one you saved for me.”

Excerpt from The Last Tear
by
Michael Jackson, from his book “Dancing The Dream”

LOVE has the FINAL Word

There I sat at the doctor's office waiting my turn. Nothing major being done but still a bit unnerving. I had prayed and asked friends to pray for me ultimately always turning to my God, the Lord Jesus Christ for protection and covering in all things. I was at peace and knew I'd be fine but still there was that nagging anxiousness. I picked up a random magazine as they asked me to walk to the back to prepare me for surgery. They mentioned there would be a wait and I might like to read something. I flipped through the pages at first not interested really but thinking more of what lay ahead for me. I have been blessed with good health. As always in every doctor's office time seemed endless as I waited. I began thinking about anything and everything else and of course as always my mind ran to Michael Jackson, his life, his legacy, his music, how he changed the world with his love. Then once again back to my certain reality where I sat waiting. I began passively, off and on, reading each article of the magazine in my lap to fill the time. I looked up at the clock over head and 2 hours had passed and I was still patiently waiting. I returned to my magazine flipped the page and there was an article "Adopting at 55", I immediately thought "How brave this lady is" and began reading. I was enthralled by this woman's spirit. It seemed so familiar. Yet I was just thinking about Michael Jackson and the love he shared with the world.

Then all anxiousness was gone. Instead a feeling of complete reassurance filled me as God through Michael Jackson shared yet another lesson of love. I smiled as I felt once again Michael's global love touch my heart as I read the words:

"When we met, my future daughters spoke only a few words of English, and I spoke almost nothing of their language, Amharic. So I opened the iTunes folder on my laptop, and though I’d brought African music to play, it turned out what they loved best was Michael Jackson. Then we started dancing.

I learned it’s not that complicated, spending five days in the company of children with whom your common vocabulary is perhaps five words, if what those children need is to be held and loved. For five days we danced, drew pictures, kicked around a soccer ball, sang songs. We played with the babies. The girls braided my hair, unbraided it, braided it again. But they were also happy to do nothing more than sit on my lap, so long as my arms were wrapped around them. Never, in all those five days I was with them, did they fight with each other or cry or complain, until the night before I left. We slept in one small single bed together that night. In the morning when I had to go home without them, Birtukan flung herself on the ground and cried so violently, her whole body shook. When I held her one last time before leaving, to say good-bye, I could feel her heart racing and her whole body trembling."



Michael Jackson has touched places on this earth and reached people on this earth that no other human has been able to touch or reach. He continues even now after his passing to globally share his legacy of love with all mankind, every nation and every creed. I read this article and no longer had an anxious thought about what lay ahead for me. God has a plan for all of us. For some it is bigger as it was for Michael. Chosen from the womb to reach the world with his love, music and creative genius. For others it is small but no less important. I love the words of Martin Luther King Jr. as shared by his son at Michael Jackson's Memorial, "That in life one must discover what their calling is, and when they do, they must do their jobs so well that the living, the dead, and the unborn could do them no better." He constantly challenged us to become our best by stating, "That if you can not be pine on the top of the hill, why just be a shrub in the valley? But be the best little shrub on the side of the road. Be a bush if you can not be a tree. If you can not be the highway then be a trail. If you can not be the sun, just be a star. For it isn't by size that you win or you fail. You've got to be the best of what you are." Michael Jackson was truly the best of what he was. Finally Martin Luther King Jr. said "That in life if it falls ever your lot to be a street sweeper you must sweep streets so well, in fact you must sweep streets like Beethoven composed music. Sweep streets like Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets like Raphael painted pictures. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth would have to pause and say "Here lived a great street sweeper that did his job well."



Each of us has a calling. A calling an assignment from God. Michael's calling was huge, globally huge yet he walked in humility and grace. He endured so much persecution and pain in his life, yet continued to reach out and love others. Reading about the language of love Michael Jackson's music enabled this adopting mother and these Ethiopian girls to share, I recalled the story of the time Michael sat with his mother crying about the starving and dying children in Africa. Michael made a promise to his mother that one day he would do something about that.

Oh!! How he did! He fed the hungry, provided medical care all over the world, to more than we will ever know. As I read this article I see his inspiration around the world still spreading over a year after his death, and know beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Michael Jackson's love of children, Africa, the hurting and needy still lives on. It lives on in those he has inspired. It lives on in his children as Prince, God bless him, continues to carry on his father's legacy as he works in a warehouse filling boxes of food for "Children's Hunger Fund", fulfilling his promise he made at the Grammys when he said, "Through all his songs his message was simple,"LOVE". We will continue to spread his message and help the world."






As my very dear friend, Bonnie, from MJ-Upbeat, states
"LOVE has the FINAL Word"

Copy and paste links. Sorry they are not embedded.

You can read the entire article in MORE magazine September issue:
Adopting at 55 by Joyce Maynard

http://www.more.com/2051/24763-adopting-at-55

If you feel you would like to help out Prince Jackson and also follow in Michael's Legacy of Love and donate to the Children's Hunger Fund please go to this link:

http://www.chfus.org/en/component/donation/