Anchorage Daily News

It would be an understatement to say Michael Jackson touched my life. His musical messages and moving melodies stirred my passion as a young poet. I was inspired from the catchy soul of "ABC" and "I Want You Back" to the mature sensuality of "Lady in My Life." Michael romanced us, fought the media and encouraged unity through his music.

Those of us introduced to The Jackson 5 during the early years felt a sense of pride. America was experiencing growing pains and social awakenings. We as young, black Americans felt empowered, and his success gave us the green light to follow our own dreams. He opened doors that seemed impossible. Influenced by the outstanding showmanship of James Brown, Michael steadily developed his own signature style and transcended racial barriers.

As a young girl growing up in Chicago, I somehow felt connected to my neighbor from Gary, Ind. I had Michael's records, posters, cassettes and CDs. I was always a fan. I admired his stage presence, and he appeared humble although he was a shooting star blazing trails in an era when we needed something to believe in.

Michael penned songs that mattered. Songs of love and togetherness such as, "I'll Be There," "We are the World" and "Man in the Mirror." These lyrics were prolific, provided hope, direction and inspired us all to dream. He left an incredible legacy, broke barriers and ultimately became an icon as the King of Pop. I remember him fondly as a young, gifted black child with a sweet smile.

There is often a heavy price that comes along with fame, and he was all too familiar with it. Money changes everything, and whether the allegations were true is not for us to judge. He was a caring humanitarian and did what he could to make the world a better place. He was cherished all over the globe and I believe, like anyone else, he simply wanted to be loved.

Jimmi Ware is a poet, writer and performer in Anchorage.

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