Here we are on the threshold of an event that will surpass the magnitude and scope of Princess Di’s funeral.
I remember her funeral well, as I found myself in London the day after Di’s funeral, and the swell of emotion was just overwhelming. Mother Teresa has also died that same week, and I was perturbed that her recognition was swamped by the media spotlight on the Princess.
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So, I approach this post within that context, as I am not one taken by celebrity allure. I was actually poked to express my thoughts regarding the last 12 days of global reaction to Michael’s death.
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Communication technologies were on the verge of meltdown after the TMZ story was released. Even the “omnipotent” Google experienced challenges in satisfying the 4.2 million visitors per minute tying against all hope to dismiss their unbelief. Well, his death is real, and today he is memorialized. There is planned an extravaganza that will dazzle our eyes, but will it satisfy our hearts?
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Given all the tragedies surround Michael’s life, I am choosing to remember Michael through the principles of parenting. My youngest daughter has a means of giving me feedback when my interaction with her falls short of expectation. She simply say, “Disrespect!”
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She thus grabs grabs my attention and challenges me to evaluate and correct my attitude and communication.
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The privilege of parenting is such an awesome responsibility, and that is the theme that I will remembering beyond this memorial day. The critical difference or the contrast in parenting provided to Michael seems to lurk around his life’s story.
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So, I am using this post to remind us of some of the essentials that our kids need from us to be able to grow strongly into adulthood.
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My child needs to feel Loved.
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My child needs to feel accepted.
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My child needs to feel important.
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My child needs to be recognized.
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My child needs to feel independent.
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When we become effective in influencing our children in a healthy way, they will truly be kings and queens.
