I just received a text message from my friend and looked it up on the Internet. It's true. Michael Jackson has passed away. They suspect it may have been due to cardiac arrest. My mom is currently downstairs watching the live report of it on the news.

I didn't know as much about Michael Jackson as some other people may have, but I do know he was someone who had a lot of ups and downs in his life. I remember first seeing him singing "Will You Be There" on my video for "Free Willy." As time went on I became more interested in his music. And as he continued to be ridiculed for things from his plastic surgeries and accusations of child molestation (even after being found not guilty), I did feel some sympathy for him.

Mr. Jackson was someone who went through a lot. I pray that he can rest in peace. Goodbye, Michael, and thank you for your performances. Your name will forever be a part of music history.