That Was Me

I have been watching the various reactions to Michael Jackson's death, responses which range from callous disdain for him and those of us who are deeply moved by his death, to ambivalence, to grief for him and his closest loved ones. As disturbing as the disdain is to me, the most disturbing response I have seen is, arguably, a compassionate one. It is the heartfelt response of an evangelical Christian:

I hope Michael Jackson knew Jesus Christ as his savior.

( That response disturbs me the most, because that was me, back when I identified as an evangelical Christian. )

Good News!

T passed the basic motorcycle rider's course this morning! In 4-6 weeks she will get her waiver and license in the mail. We had hoped she could have a temporary license, but she'll have to wait. But at least she passed! Soon she will be licensed to ride!

Riding Again

Twyla the Bike, during a break in our 12-mile adventure.
I had determined to create a special photo today in honor of Michael Jackson. Problem is, I couldn't come up with any ideas. All I could think of was a man simply doing his thing (and going out of his way to give much of his time and attention to others in the process), no matter who liked it or didn't like it, and sometimes going to great lengths to protect his right to do his own thing.

Today I got up from my computer, donned my bike gear, and rode 12 miles on my bike, camera in tow. I wasn't trying to prove a point. I wasn't trying to be what others thought I should be. I was simply doing my own thing in my own way (with MJ on my iPod, I admit). And you know what? That's a suitable tribute without even trying to do a tribute.

Rest in peace, dear Michael. I did not know you, but I never believed any of the accusations made against you in court or in the media. I always defended you when people made jokes about you. Your only mistake was confiding in the wrong people. I always believed you were too child-like to harm anyone.

I am sorry life and people were so hard on you. I hope now you have the peace that seemed to elude you for most of your life.

Tayatha Om Gate Gate Paragate
Parasamgate Bodhi Soha

Gone, gone, gone beyond
Gone utterly beyond...Oh what an awakening!

~ "Heart Suta", by Wah!