Tribute

It is said that imitation is the best form of flattery. So, imagine my curiosity when I came home yesterday to find my youngest son in the livingroom wearing his black suit, complete with dressy shoes, white socks and sporting a fedora. He explained that he had been watching the memorial to Michael Jackson and several of his music videos. He was, as he put it "working on his MJ moves." I just smiled. The vision of him brought back so many fond memories of my children and I singing and dancing to music videos. We are still known to blast a beloved tune while we are in the car. We must be a sight when other drivers and passengers see our vehicle bouncing down the road! He peppered me with questions about Michael Jackson trivia. We relived memories of his older brother dancing like MJ in talent shows and that they danced just because they loved the music. He wondered out loud about what would happen to MJ's family and children. He wanted to know why everyone was now extolling the man's virtues when they were dogging him before. He was amazed at what Michael could do with music and dance that no one else could. He said he didn't believe anyone else would ever be able to do what Michael could . We went to pick his brother and his girlfriend up and my boy was still wearing his MJ clothes. He wasn't a bit concerned about what anyone who saw him might think. It was, afterall, his tribute, his way. As for his brother, he told him that he looked cool, borrowed the fedora, put it on his head and they started singing. I sang, too. All the while, I thanked God for the blessings He gave me in the form of my sons. My almost 14 year old son is secure enough in himself to remember Michael in his own unique way. My almost 18 year old did not ridicule, but supported his brother. I love their imagination, their enthusiasm, their brotherly love. I love the glimpses that I get of the men my sons are becoming. They don't mind sharing their beliefs or taking whatever stand they think is right. I took some pictures of the "temporary MJ impersonator". Come on, my camera is never far from my hand! But, I promised not to post them on my blog or Facebook. I understand. It was personal. But, I plan to tuck those pictures away for him to one day show his children. I can just see him sharing the music with them and explaining the memories that he and his brother and sister, mom and dad made to those tunes. Heck, he will probably run to his closet and put on his suit to show them some of the "moves" he will have "perfected" by then. I will , however, share one picture. I don't think he will mind. Afterall, imitation is the best form of flattery or the best tribute, if you will. Rest in Peace Michael....father, son, brother, uncle, friend...creator of music, inspirer of dreams and memories. You are in God's arms. Here's hoping your family clings to His promise.



Remember to Cherish this journey that we call life. Your footprints are a gift from above.

Cherene