Goodnight, Sweet Prince

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Last week as I was on my way to an audition, I heard the news that the King of Pop, Michael Jackson had died. It really shook me as I was driving in rush hour traffic and trying to concentrate on my upcoming audition. I can honestly say I couldn't concentrate. I kept seeing Michael as a little boy performing with his brothers. It was so exciting to see this little boy who was so talented. And you just wanted to see him again and again.

I remember when the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis died. My older sister was crazy about him. She thought I was playing a joke on her when I told her I heard on the radio that Elvis died. Now I know how she felt. We grew up with Michael. We wanted him to succeed. Unfortunately, I never did go to his concerts. By the time I heard he was coming to town, they were already sold out. Michael was a force to be reckoned with. People around the globe imitated him, cried for him, reached out to him.

I received an invitation to attend a gathering to view the memorial services. This event was invitation only and held at Elvis's mansion in Palm Springs. How ironic! Of course I had to attend this event. Security was tight and I had to show my invitation. They took down my driver's license number and personal email address. I had to use the restroom and they told me I couldn't take in my cell phone or camera.

There were about 100 people at the gathering. I wore a black dress, black shoes, little black gloves and a black hat. I wanted to honor Michael as if I knew him personally. I wanted to show my respect. The memorial was beautiful, touching and sad. I honestly wept. I saw photos go off in the corner of my eyes. After the memorial, I wanted to leave immediately.

A reporter approached me and asked for my name because they planned on publishing the photos they took of me. I couldn't speak so I handed him my card. I believe he was from the local newspaper, the Desert Sun.

All I knew was, I was sitting in what was formerly Elvis' home and mourning the King of Pop, Michael. Outside the home there was a huge canvas where we could write notes. I was told these items would be sent to the Jackson family.

I wrote: To Michael, may you finally get the peace that you deserve. Love, Lisa

A gentleman was there with guards because he ran security at Neverland. He brought in some of Michael's personal effects. One of the items was Michael's Fedora hat. We passed it around. And I got to try it on. My head was larger than Michael's! But it was wonderful to try it on. I had to leave because it was just too sad.

There will never be another American treasure like Michael Jackson. May he rest in peace.