Today marks the one year anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death.
It’s sad when people die and stuff. Because of this sadness, we often glamorize the infividual and choose to remember only the positive things about them.
Two years ago, Jacko was a joke — a washed up pop star nobody took seriously. When he died, the majority who had previously ignored him did a 180-degree turn to praise him. He deserved better than that. But what he really deserved was a slap upside the head with the truth. He had it coming.
This may not be a popular sentiment, and it is really fucking strange to be the VOICE OF REASON in a chaotic world, but as somebody who continues to personally bitch slap his worst habits I think I have a point here:
I’ve seen a common thread with some so-called fans who claim “the media villified Michael and drove him to pills” (actual quote) This sentiment is as disturbing as it is absurd. Nobody makes someone else an addict, plain and simple. While others may certainly contribute to their dependency by enabling them, each individual is ultimately responsible for their own health and well being.
There are all sorts of people all over the world who have to deal with problems — and they don’t turn to drugs. Jacko is not a victim. His case is tragic and rather sad, but that does not absolve him of blame in his own death.
An addict will not seek help until they accept that they have a problem and decide to deal with it. Nobody could have helped Michael, unless he wanted help. He chose to surround himself with “yes” people, chose to pursue treatment he was repeatedly told would harm him AND chose to shut out people who dared deny his every whim.
A brilliant musician and devoted humanitarian, he deserved better than that — if for nobody else but himself, let alone his three children. Maybe we can learn something here, as we say goodbye to an icon.
Peace out, Michael!
