On Father’s Day I was taking my children to play at a water park. In route, I was listening to the radio when a Michael Jackson song played. I listened briefly as I remembered an event from high school where the song was played. The event (and even the song) brought back happy memories. Though not really a Michael Jackson fan, I must admit the man could crank out the tunes and could shame any winner of Dancing with the Stars. He no doubt created many memories for those who loved his music and attempted to mimic his dance moves. 

When I heard the news of his death today, I was saddened - saddened for what his life had become and how it could have turned out differently. His greatest contributions were helping to pave the way for the celebrity philanthropic movement with his “We Are the World” and “Heal the World” hits. “We Are the World” reportedly raised over $60 million for children in Africa. Reading about his death, was a sad reminder of what could have been. I wonder what more Michael Jackson could have done had he focused more on using his talents to make a difference. What a bigger and greater legacy he could have created had he lived another 50 more years. Fifty is too young to die for the King of Pop, or for that matter, for a pauper who was helped by his incredible talent. He will be greatly missed.

Inspirational speaker Tim Richardson speaks about how giving increases employee morale, lowers employee turnover, increases customer loyalty and creates higher profits for Fortune 500 companies, associations, healthcare, and financial services. He is founder of the Bill Walter Melanoma Research Fund. For more information on Tim, go to www.TimRichardson.com

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