Letter to Michael

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Letter to Michael

Dear Michael:

I heard the news today, oh boy....

Here I am, a middle aged person, driving home from work when I hear of your
passing. I am in my world of work and family and everyday living. How could
I know that your passing would so affect my life, and me.

Oh, I grew up with your music, Michael, and I was enthralled with your talent
and persona---almost went to see you in concert. Than 1993 happened and
I listened Michael; God help me I read and listened to what was said about you.
Never fully believing, but not really knowing, I moved away from you. Oh, and I
am so sorry for that. I am sorry for accepting untruths and slander as if it were fact.
I feel so sad and complicit and responsible for not looking for the truth at that
time. I feel cheated, too, because I missed your message--I lost years of not
being connected to that energy that you showered us with.

After you passed, I began a journey of discovery, Michael, with the purpose
of deciding for myself who you were/are. The Internet made it possible to go back
40 years and then move forward through your life--through film of your
concerts and interviews. I read your books and cried at the beauty and insight
and began to understand a little bit about who you were. This time I listened to
people who really knew you--I saw the tenderness you had for children, always;
the unbelieveable universal response to the talent and love that poured out of you;
I watched your movie and watched again, loving your presence and laughter;
and something happened.

In my life that was predictable and ordinary, you touched my heart and the tears
began. It was as if my heart opened and recognized love again--where it comes
from and how it is inside all of us. I looked in the mirror, at you Michael, and got it.
I'm loving more, laughing more, engaging life more and embracing the Truth that
is always there.

I want you to know that I am not alone in this process. There are many others
who are taking a similar journey to look in your mirror. You are successful, Michael.
Your message is given and taken.

So, I want to express a heartfelt thank you, Michael. Thank you for being aware
of your purpose here and your dedication to accomplish it. Thank you for your
example of grace under our pressure and your unwillingness to give up on us. Thank
you for all the joy and wonderment at your God blessed talent. Thank you for always
loving. Thank you for caring enough to give children your love and share their
innocence. Thank you for being. And being our angel.

I am forever a better person because of you. I love you. God bless you.

Your fan,

Lauren