MJ Reflections

ANGELS

2012-01-11T00:10:00.001-08:00

“There is a medieval belief that angels want to sing to us. It makes them happy to do so. All we have to do is listen.” ~ F. David Peat

“As we journey through our lives, may we walk with awareness of our accompanying angels, knowing we may experience them in many ways. Angels may bring comfort when we are suffering, peace that calms raging inner wars, hope in times of despair. And during normal, everyday times, when nothing significant seems to be happening and we seem to be just plodding along, our angels, with their gentle humor, joy, laughter, and warm presence, can add a wonderful lightness to our lives. IF, that is, we remember to ask them for what we need! Be sure to include your angels in all your days; be open to their surprises, talk to them, ask them for any help you need, from the most mundane to the very important. You may be amazed at what happens -- and don’t forget to thank them for always being there!” ~ Anne Strader

“No one on earth could feel like this,
I'm thrown and overblown with bliss
There must be an angel
Playing with my heart.”
~ Annie Lennox & David A. Stewart

“Living with an awareness of the companioning presence of angels . . . we come to realize angelic joy is working with us, surprising us, and reminding us that we are loved beyond measure. Limit not the myriad ways your angelic companions may knock on the door of your heart. Spending time in the Silence draws them nigh.” ~ Nan Merrill

“Blessed are You, Who understood my tears,
You comfort me with love's embrace.
Though my eyes cannot see You,
I feel your gentle Presence,
like angel wings lifting my spirit.
You turn my mourning into joy,
I dance to a new song.
Blessed are You, O loving companion
of my heart.” ~ Nan Merrill

“... walking and talking with an angel is really fundamentally no different from walking and talking with an ordinary human being. Both the angel and the person are expressions of the ultimate mystery; both are emanations of the Beloved ... There is only one sacredness and we all have it.” ~ David Spangler

Native American Prayer

2012-01-04T00:15:00.000-08:00

Oh, Great Spirit
Whose voice I hear in the winds,
And whose breath gives life to all the world,
hear me, I am small and weak,
I need your strength and wisdom.
Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes ever behold
the red and purple sunset.
Make my hands respect the things you have made
and my ears sharp to hear your voice.
Make me wise so that I may understand the things
you have taught my people.
Let me learn the lessons you have
hidden in every leaf and rock.

I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother,
but to fight my greatest enemy - myself.
Make me always ready to come to you
with clean hands and straight eyes.
So when life fades, as the fading sunset,
my Spirit may come to you without shame.

(translated by Lakota Sioux Chief Yellow Lark in 1887)
published in Native American Prayers - by the Episcopal Church

THE PRINCE OF PEACE

2011-12-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

In the middle of a forest

There's a clearing by a stream

Where a mother holds her newborn

And the child begins to dream

And he dreams of hopes unspoken

When the tears of man will cease

And his mother holds him closer

For he is the Prince of Peace

And the moon is looking downward

Casting shadows through the trees

And the stars are shining brighter

As they whisper what they see

How the emperor and the pauper

With the lion and the lamb

Kneel down before the infant

For his peace they understand

Let the bells ring out the news

Let it echo across the land

That a king is born this day

And his kingdom is at hand

Let the world rejoice together

As it looks upon the stars

Knowing every man's our brother

And that every child is ours

Yes, he dreams of hopes unspoken

When the tears of man will cease

To the emperor and the pauper

He IS the Prince of Peace!

~ adapted from lyrics on

Trans-Siberian Orchestra's album:

"Christmas Eve and Other Stories"

*************************************

Light looked down and saw darkness.

"I will go there," said Light.

Peace looked down and saw war.

"I will go there," said Peace.

Love looked down and saw hatred.

"I will go there," said Love.

So the Lord of Light,

the Prince of Peace,

the King of Love

came down and lived among us.

~ "Cloth for the Cradle," Iona Community ~

*************************************

Reconciling God, you have bridged the gap between darkness and light. May we move closer to the Light of Christ with each passing breath. Amen.

O Christmas Sun!

2011-12-19T20:57:00.000-08:00

“O Christmas Sun! What holy task is thine! To fold a world in the embrace of God!”

~ Guy Wetmore Carryl ~

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

O Christmas Sun, My Love, My Light

You’ve given me strength to endure the night

In a fleeting moment you did appear

You gave me hope, took away my fear

You touched my soul, so deep, so true

And brought me joy at the sight of you

Your heart is warm, your beauty bright

Your gift is Love, My Sun, My Light!

Forever and Always, Michael…

“I thank God!”

~ Charlene ~

12/28/2009

My very first poem - written at the end of my very first Christmas retreat at the ocean - during which I had my very first vision of Michael on the evening of Christmas Day. I have never told anyone about this vision because I’d never had an experience like this and I didn’t quite know what to make of it. I’ll never forget it though!! He communicated a few things to me somehow - I don’t know - telepathically or something. The very first thing he said was “I thank God! I didn’t know where you were!”... like he had been searching for me!

As we approach Christmas, I just wanted to share my little miracle from 2 years ago with you today. May God bless you all this Christmas season with Love, Peace and Joy beyond measure. And also...

Remember the Gift, the sweet Kiss of Love

Magical Child sent to earth from above.

In all you do and all you say, may it be expressed with Love this day...

and every day along the way!

~♥~

Copyright © 2011 by C. Burgess

The Greatest and the Least of Me

2011-12-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

- Photo by C. Burgess -

Northern California Redwoods

July, 2009

How many times will my faith be tested

How many times must I face this wall

How can I be sure of this path where you have placed me

when I continue to stumble and fall

Two years long this journey has been

Two years short I’ve been in heaven

Finding you, finding me

Oh, this journey would be

the greatest and the least of all of me

Learning to fly so high in the sky

Daring to chase my demons away

You’ve shown me how to deal with doubt

My fear be gone with a simple song

and a choice to change what I see is wrong

But once in a while something will trigger

an old habit, belief, or unreasonable fear

And then again my faith is tested

I face that wall, I stumble and fall

Doubt and fear loom large and near

Take over my being and make me believe

for an instant… I have no significance

And you are simply a figment of my wildest imagination

Then I choose once again to believe in you, my friend

To believe in me and this fateful journey

It’s your love that moves me

to rewrite my history

How many times can I say thank you again

How many times will my faith be tested

And how many times will your love remain

6/22/11

My deep LOVE and gratitude to you, Beloved, for continuing to nudge me through these stumbling blocks and on to the next level of this incredible journey!!

Star Light, Star Bright

2011-12-07T07:08:00.000-08:00

Star light, star bright
Twinkling in the moonlight
My soul rejoices at the sight
Of your brilliance on this glorious night!

Love is reflected in your shimmering glow
Millions cheer as you put on your show
Heavenly wonder from the very start
The beginning of time, the first beat of your heart

I can only imagine the secrets that lie
In the vastness of universes beyond the sky
Mysteries unfolding in time and in space
Singing a song only God can trace

Star light, star bright
Twinkling in the moonlight
My soul rejoices at the sight
Of your brilliance on this glorious night!

Your beauty is truly a sight to behold
The dance you perform for the angels unfolds
Giving life to the heavens, keeping time to the beat
The wind holds the rhythm, creates passion and heat

Your greatness is evident, your purpose so clear
How can I measure up, I’m not even near
My very existence on this planet called Earth
Is nothing more than a grain of sand, a speck of dirt

Star light, star bright
Twinkling in the moonlight

Your reason for being seems much grander than mine
But the truth is we’re both in line
For a love so great, God has gifted us the feeling
Each holding a spark in our hearts worth revealing

The love held within must be shared or, you see
The light will go out, we can’t let that be
Sparkle and shimmer ‘til the end of all time
Pass it on, make a difference, save a life, let it shine!

Star light, star bright
Twinkling in the moonlight
My soul rejoices at the sight
Of your brilliance on this glorious night!

Your warmth will stay on, reside in my heart
As long as you dare to keep twinkling in the dark
Light my world, star bright, inspire me within
To be all that I can be, share my gift, all that’s given!

01/30/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

You Are There

2011-12-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

In the stillness that surrounds me

A velvet hum fills the air

Your love envelops me

And I know you are there

Listening to the wind as it rustles through the trees

Whispering in my ear Creation’s story

A soft gentle breeze

Tells me you are there

In the sky so blue

Bright and cool

Clear as the waters of a tropical sea

You are there watching over me

In the flame of a candle

Or a crackling fire

The warmth of your love

The heat of your desire

Reaches for me in the darkness

Melting my fear

And I know you are there

In the music that speaks to me

Of love in paradise

Heaven’s in our hearts

And the dawn’s forever different

Because you are there

God’s gift for all time

Waiting and wondering no more

His love has opened the door

And you are there

Tears of gratitude

Flow from my heart

This gift eternal

Will never part

And I know you are there

Until the moon stops glowing

Or the stars refuse to shine

In other words

Until the end of time

09/05/10

You Are Mine

2011-11-14T06:54:00.000-08:00

I will come to you in the silence
I will lift you from all your fear
You have heard my voice
I’ve claimed you as my choice
Be still and know I am here

I am hope for all who are hopeless
I am eyes for all who long to see
In the shadows of the night
I will be your light
Come and rest in me

Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow me
I will bring you home
I love you, and you are mine

I am strength for all the heavy laden
Healing for the ones who dwell in shame
The blind will one day see
Declare “I now believe!”
And all will know my name

I am the Love that leads all to freedom
I offer peace the world cannot give
I have called your name
Embracing all your pain
Now stand, walk beside me, and live!

Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow me
I will bring you home
I love you, and you are mine

~ Charlene Burgess ~
Adaptation of original song lyrics by David Haas

Call For Love Devotion - November 7: The Invitation

2011-11-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain! I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day, and if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, “Yes!”

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

copyright © 1999 by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

I want to know... Do you believe that a change is gonna come? And will you be there with me to make that change, when change is the only way? ~ C. Burgess

Call For Love Devotion - October 31: This Is It

2011-10-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

This month’s Major Love Prayer was no doubt one of the most powerful I have experienced so far. I felt as if I was very clearly focused and I had an amazing visualization in the midst of my prayers. I was hanging around outside the courthouse in LA, mingling with others who were there for the same purpose - waiting for the verdict in the Conrad Murray trial to be announced. There was a palpable energy in the air - the energy of anticipation as we waited for the final word from the jury to come down. Almost 2 ½ years since Michael’s death, and an ocean of tears later, we were finally going to have some kind of resolution to the question that had been hanging over this inconceivable injustice far too long. Would Murray be found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and would he be sentenced to the maximum prison term of 4 years for this crime? As meager as this sentence seems for the substantial loss of the life of Michael Joe Jackson to this world, it would at least give us a sense that some sort of justice was being served.

As I mingled with other fans, I could feel Michael’s presence among us. The anticipation built to a crescendo of emotions that were overflowing from all of our hearts in those moments of waiting. But there was also a lightness in the air - a sense of excitement and a feeling of celebration as we shared our common love for this one incredible human being. We all knew how abundantly blessed we were to have been touched by Michael’s spirit! And we knew that more and more people around the world were being awakened to the truth of his essence and his purpose because of this trial.

As the energy continued to build in the crowd, people started gathering into a prayer circle. There were several hundred people there - the circle was huge! As we bowed our heads to pray, I felt Michael by my side, holding my hand. There was a warmth from his hand that traveled up my arm and spread through my entire body. His love and concern for all of us was very evident to me. I could also feel his joy over the love we were all sharing because of him and also over the fact that he could be there with us! He squeezed my hand once, as if sending me a signal that everything was going to be alright.
Then, in the middle of our prayer, we heard a massive whooshing sound overhead. We looked up at the courthouse building and there were white doves flying out of every single window in the building! The sky quickly filled with hundreds of doves as cheers rose up from the crowd. Even though we did not hear the verdict, we knew it had been announced and there was much joy and celebration as we all lifted our hands up to the sky!

I’ve been pondering this visualization all week, assuming that the verdict had been 'guilty', even though I did not hear it during my meditation. And I realized something new as I was discovering and downloading ‘new’ videos of Michael this weekend. It’s almost as if they were coming out of the woodwork - full-length versions of concerts and interviews and 'making of' specials that I have never seen before!! I wondered “why are these videos showing up now?” Just like those doves filling the sky, it has been like an outpouring of Love - a celebration of Michael’s life and work! I have cried more tears - tears of sorrow for what happened to him and tears of joy for knowing him and experiencing his love! I realized today as I sat down to write this devotion that no matter what the verdict is in this case, we will always be able to celebrate Michael. What he has given us will never cease to exist. THIS IS IT… his message… his work… his love… will live forever, and the verdict cannot change that!

Rejoice in You!

Thank you, beloved
for blazing your brilliance into my world
For showing me that real Love
is more than a dream
It wraps itself around and inside of my being
when you touch me
When your light descends
from the moon and the stars
To warm my heart,
caress my soul
And you whisper
a promise of your everlasting glow

You are now forever young, my love
You fly on the wings of pure white doves
Nothing escapes you
Everything seeks you
The earth and the heavens
Rejoice in you!

In the silence of midnight
I find you
In the quiet of my soul
you linger
Singing your song
Your message an invitation
to Love… compassion… sanctuary… vision
A glorious future paved with gold
and the brilliant colors of your dreams
Your mission to behold!
All that was yours
is now mine, it seems

You are now forever young, my love
You fly on the wings of pure white doves
Nothing escapes you
Everything seeks you
The earth and the heavens
Rejoice in you!

10/31/11
2011 © by Charlene Burgess

Photo Credits: Above photo-art (Courthouse & MJ with arms spread) provided by Major Love Prayer - Thank You MLP!!

Call For Love Devotion - October 24: Perseverance

2011-10-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

When we have challenges
that seem to weigh us down

May Perseverance be our strength

When we have lost someone we love
and don’t think we can go on

May our sustenance be our Faith

When we have been hurt
by the words or actions of others

May Love be our weapon of choice

When we are worried about the future
and other worldly matters

May Hope be our vision’s voice

God has given us all that we need
to Persevere
to live our Faith
to Love
and to embrace Hope

May we always remember
to seek Divine guidance
and to use these gifts bestowed

Amen

10/24/11
© 2011 ~ Charlene Burgess

Call For Love Devotion - October 3: HOPE

2011-10-03T00:33:00.001-07:00

May the music remind us that Hope abides
Within each heart where it never dies

They cannot take what lies within
It’s ours to hold, it’s where Love begins

Hope remembers that soft place to land
Where beauty and truth are close at hand

When everything seems made of stone
Hope’s light will lead you home

So reach within where the music lies
Where Hope lives on and never dies

10/02/11
Copyright © 2011 Charlene Burgess

“Remember, Red…
Hope is a good thing
Maybe the best of things
And no good thing ever dies.”
~ Andy ~
from the movie, Shawshank Redemption

Southern Oregon Coast - photo by C. Burgess
(Yes, Red… the Pacific IS as blue as you’ve seen in your dreams!)

THIS GIFT ETERNAL

We carry in our hearts
All that He has given us…
His Music… His Joy… His Life
He wants us to remember
To always remember
He’ll be right by our side
For all time

We hold it dear
This gift eternal…
His Love… His Hope… His Light
He lives in us
And will never part
For we are always
First and foremost in His heart

10/02/11
Copyright © 2011 Charlene Burgess

Call For Love Devotion - September 26: In the Light

2011-09-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

What is this light we have been given? How do we use it? How do we stay in it? And how do we ensure that Michael’s legacy of Love and the light he shared with the world continue into perpetuity? Certainly, all that he did on his own is powerful enough to make that happen, isn’t it? So, why did he plant that seed in each of us? Was it just for our own enjoyment, our own healing, our own pleasure? Well, partly. I believe Michael does want us to enjoy what he has given us. He certainly wants us to heal and to find pleasure in this wonderful gift! But I also believe he wants us to use this gift to keep the ripple going, to help heal the world, to shed more light on the darkness of humanity, and to invite others to join us in the light. If we hold the gift to ourselves, the light will fade - it will eventually be extinguished and then we will have nothing to share. This flame which burns so brightly within us now must be shared in order for it to continue burning. And once shared, it grows and spreads like wildfire!

A perfect example of this can be found in a story I recently came across about some college students here in the U.S. who joined together and made a choice to greet a group of haters with Love. They became aware of a particular well-known ‘hate’ group that was planning to stage a protest demonstration on their campus (an outside group). The university is known for being accepting of ALL people, and this hate group’s intent was to protest (under the guise of being Christian) the university’s acceptance of ‘certain types’ of people. Well, these university students initially wanted to respond in an aggressive manner, but they got together and formulated a different plan - one that involved reaching out in Love. They showed up for the scheduled demonstration and, acting as hosts, offered their guests free hugs, cookies and hot cocoa. Hundreds of students showed up to share their Love, casting a brilliant light on what could have been a very dark situation! They also worked on their own campaign called “God Loves Poetry” (which, I understand, is a national campaign) where they took this group’s hate-filled flyers & press releases and, using black markers, edited them into beautiful “Love Notes from God”, then they posted them around campus. This single incident may not have changed the hate group’s agenda, but I’m sure it threw them off course a bit! And it certainly sparked a lot of discussion around campus and in the community, creating a new paradigm for ways to respond to darkness! Now, this new paradigm message continues to spread as this story is published in the news and throughout the internet… and the ripple continues.

I wanted to share this because it brought me a sense of peace and it reminded me of the power of Light and Love. They are much more powerful than any darkness or hate, I really believe that! And this story is only one example of that power. In the last 2 years, I've been hearing more and more stories about remarkable things happening - a shift in human behavior and consciousness - a change in the way people are responding to darkness. I'm not saying there was nothing good happening before, but it seems when Michael left this earth the universe shifted. His light scattered so far and wide that millions of little torches were lit that day and in the months that followed. It’s impossible for others within the torch carrier’s midst not to be affected by that light. By shining our light in the world, we are indirectly sharing Michael’s light with others. In fact, there are probably people around us who don’t even have a clue about Michael, yet they have been touched by his light because of the change in us! I LOVE the idea of that!!!

I can see a bonfire on the horizon and I am so grateful to be a little spark at the start of that worldwide glow! Hmmm...makes me wonder if there will be a day when someone will look at the earth from a distance and be able to see this glow - more brilliant than it’s ever been before!! Oh, that is a day I hunger for!

Dear Michael,
You are such a blessing to me and I can’t thank you enough for your love and your unwavering belief in me! Have I already said this? Well, it doesn’t matter, because it bears repeating! You are the light of my life, my heart and my soul, my reason for continuing to exist! What you are showing me is my own power, my own ability to do what needs to be done. If it weren’t for you, I would be lost somewhere in the dark chasm of humanity’s ignorance. You showed me the light and I didn’t want to be in the dark anymore! You lifted me from it because of who you were on this earth! What’s so crazy about all of this is that I didn’t even realize I needed to be lifted from anything until it happened and I could see where I had been. I now recognize this ignorance in other people where I didn’t see it before. I understand it and I have empathy for what they don’t even realize is engulfing them. How does that switch get flipped? How does one invite others to step into the light with them when they don’t even realize they’re in the dark?

Into the Light

This is an invitation
An extreme revelation
My hand extends
To pull you in

My heart beseeches
Step into the light with me
I’ll lift you from the dark
The place where you can no longer
find your own heart

I’ll help you to see
What this love can do
In the light of your soul
It will set you free
How can you deny
This gift I bestow

I’m telling you
You won’t even realize
Until I can show you
What you’ve been missing
…until now

Love, beauty and joy beyond measure
It is God’s truth
God’s wish
God’s infinite pleasure
To see you remade
Into the one he wanted you to be

He has chosen me
To help you find your own reality
Step into the light with me
And you will see
The “you” you were created to be

12/31/10
Copyright © 2010 Charlene Burgess

When God provides us with opportunities to share the Truth about Michael, there are wonderful tools available for us to use - websites and information dedicated to documenting the truth about Michael Jackson, put together by people who have spent countless hours researching and compiling all the stories, articles, quotes by people who knew him, analysis of court documents and the autopsy report, and the list goes on and on. We don’t have to do the research - it’s already been done for us. All we have to do is read it and refer others to it when there’s a question. And as long as we are sharing this Truth in the new light we have been given and with love in our hearts, there is no doubt in my mind that the Truth will prevail. What a blessing it is that Michael’s love and light inspired a handful of people to dedicate themselves to this endeavor! We are all being shown the power of what we can do when we stay in the light and extend our hand in love inviting others to join us there.

Call For Love Devotion - September 19: Flower Power

2011-09-19T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Message of the Sunflowers:
a Magic Symbol of Peace
by Georgianna Moore
1927-2002

Once upon a time the earth was even more beautiful than it is today. The water was pure and deep, reflecting within itself the sunlight which gave life to all the creatures beneath the waves.

The earth was green with many kinds of trees and plants. These gave food and shelter to the birds, the animals, and to all mankind. At night the air was so clear that the starlight gave a glow almost as bright as the moon.

The people of the earth lived close to nature. They understood it and honored it and never took more than what they needed from it. The people lived in peace so they prospered and began to build many nations all around the world according to nature’s climate.

But one day, a terrible thing happened. A strange spirit of greed entered the hearts of mankind. People began to be jealous of one another, and they were not satisfied with all the good things they already had. The nations wanted more and more of everything: more land, more water, more resources. They squeezed precious minerals from the earth to build terrible weapons to defend their nations from other greedier nations. They killed one another. They polluted the air and the water with poisons. Nature began to die.

This is called war. War is ugly. It destroys love and hope and peace.

Then one day a magical thing occurred. The birds of the air, the animals of the land, and the creatures beneath the water came to an agreement: if they were to survive, something would have to be done to stop these wars. Only through peace could their world survive.

“We cannot speak the human language,” they declared, “and mankind can no longer understand ours. We must find among us a symbol of peace so brilliant that all who see it will stop and remember that peace and sharing is beautiful.”

“I am what you need,” said a golden sunflower. “I am tall and bright. My leaves are food for the animals, my yellow petals can turn plain cloth to gold, my seeds are many and are used for food by all living beings. Yet, the seeds I drop upon the ground can take root and I will grow again and again. I can be your symbol of peace.”

All nature rejoiced, and it was decided that the birds would each take one sunflower seed and they would fly over every nation and plant the seed in the earth as a gift. The seeds took root and grew, and the sunflowers multiplied.

Wherever the sunflowers grew, there seemed to be a special golden glow in the air. The people could not ignore such a magical sight.

Soon they began to understand the message of the sunflowers so they decided to destroy all of their terrible weapons and to put an end to the greed and to the fear of war. They chose the sunflower as a symbol of peace and new life for all the world to recognize and understand.

A ceremony was celebrated by planting a whole field of sunflowers. Artists painted pictures of the sunflowers, writers wrote about them, and the people of the world were asked to plant more sunflower seeds as a symbol of remembrance.

All nature rejoiced once more as the golden sunflowers stood tall with their faces turned eastward to the rising sun, then followed the sun until it set in the west.

They gave their goodness to the world so that everyone who sees a sunflower will know that the golden light of peace is beautiful.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

As many of Michael’s fans and the media gather outside the courthouse next week on the first day of Murray‘s trial, try to imagine the feeling in the air. The anticipation of this long-awaited trial has built to a crescendo and the energy is palpable. We are, after all, on the threshold of some sort of resolution to this horrific injustice. We all want our beloved Michael to be vindicated, as he should be, but we are braced for the inevitable litany (by Murray’s defense and especially by the media) of all the untruths and misunderstandings which plagued Michael throughout his life. The reality of having to stand by and helplessly watch as Michael is stripped of his dignity in the public eye once again is almost more than we can bear. The oceans of tears we have shed since his death over 2 years ago are still fresh and the pain of his loss is still an open wound, raw and throbbing.

We are concerned about his children and we want so achingly for the world to understand the absolute truth about everything that was good and honest and real about Michael Joseph Jackson. All of these emotions have stirred our determination to do what is right and our passion for seeing that the truth be told! But being the unique individuals we were created to be, we don’t always agree on how to go about it. Tension and disrespect have been fostered between fans on the web as individual opinions are expressed, and disagreements have fueled the fire of our desire to see justice finally be done for the man we all love. We have turned on each other, making judgments where we have no right to. We have created division where there once was unity.

This is called war. War is ugly. It destroys love and hope and peace.

In the midst of our determination, we have forgotten why we came together in the first place. And we have forgotten that we, along with his family and friends, are now Michael’s representatives in this world.

Michael was always about Love and Peace. Now WE must be the peacemakers!

When the Call For Love facebook group was first started this spring, and the trial was initially set to begin in May, there was a small group of us that formulated a plan to restore unity among the fans and to create an atmosphere of Love and Peace at the courthouse on the first day of the trial. We gathered our resources and made plans to order 100 sunflowers to be delivered to the courthouse and distributed among the various fan groups there before the Jacksons would arrive. We also ordered 4 white roses, each to be handed directly to the Jackson women as they entered the courthouse. Now, finally, after these long months of waiting for the trial to begin, our plan will be carried out! Our friend in LA, Betty Byrnes, is going to do everything she can to make sure it is carried out in a way that will foster Peace among the fans in the midst of the chaos. Fans who are now divided will be unified by the offering of Peace as symbolized by the sunflower. All of us who cannot physically be there for this important day in Michael's HIStory will be represented in this offering of Peace, Love and Unity that was Michael’s message! The lines of division will be erased as each sunflower is passed from one to another - differences forgotten in a moment that acknowledges our singleness of purpose! Barriers torn down in true Michael-fashion for the world to witness.

Imagine the sea of sunflowers visible to everyone there, including the media. This will help us all to remember that we have a responsibility to always be about Peace and Love as Michael’s representatives in the world - during this trial and for the rest of our lives.

THIS IS IT! … THIS is how we Love him and honor him!

"Dear God, Bless us all as we move closer to this important trial in Michael's HIStory. May we be true representatives of the Love and Peace which Michael LIVED every single day of his life. Help us to be the embodiment of that perfect Love in all we do, so that we may effect the change which is so badly needed in this world today. Thank you for the gift of Michael and for his gift of Love and Peace upon this Earth. Amen." ~ written by C. Burgess

Call For Love Devotion - September 12: Attitude of Gratitude

2011-09-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

When I think of gratitude, I think of blessings - blessings in the basic things of everyday life, many of which we tend to take for granted unless we make a concerted effort to acknowledge them and to find the gift that lies within each one. Each time I pray, I begin the prayer with a ‘thank you’ to God for things which I see as blessings in my life on that day. This helps me to remember what is most important, and by expressing gratitude to my creator, acknowledging first the blessings, this cultivates a positive attitude in me which stays with me throughout the day.

Gratitude also makes me think of the unexpected blessings concealed in some of our most difficult trials. Although I don't believe God causes hurtful things to happen to us, I do believe God is right there with us in our darkest hour loving us through our pain and anguish. We receive Divine Love through the people who are there to offer hugs, comfort, understanding, prayers and assistance when needed. Opportunities to find healing solutions in the midst of our deepest hurt are also available if we are open to seeing them. And it is in that healing we may discover surprising ways in which we can use our experience to help others.

These are just a few of the blessings concealed within the challenges we face. The beautiful thing about it is that whether we see the blessings or not is our choice. God has given US the power to determine our own experience! If we don't get that, and we spend our lives passively waiting and expecting someone else or God to change our circumstances so that we can feel better, we miss the point, and we miss the gift - the gift of choosing… choosing gratitude for the experience because we know the experience will bless us with greater wisdom and Love!

If we view life’s challenges as struggles which we cannot overcome, we will spend the majority of our time wallowing in self-pity and misery and we will have nothing to give to others, much less to ourselves. But when we view life’s inevitable challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, we are living in an attitude of gratitude and will have much to share with others from our experience and our positive outlook. The key is to remember that everyone faces challenges in their lives, even those who appear to have it all and who seem to always be happy. Chances are, they have made the choice to perceive their challenges as gifts… blessings that can be used for good.

Something else that comes to mind when I think of gratitude is Michael’s example of how he used his gifts to their full potential and how he always expressed sincere gratitude for the gifts he was given. We are all given special gifts and talents which are bestowed upon each of us by the creator. We have a responsibility to nurture those gifts, using them to make the most of our lives and to share them with others. Expressing humble gratitude for our gifts and creating a better world by giving from the abundance which we have been given is, I believe, what we are all called to do.

Finally, when I think of gratitude, I think of the Gift of Michael Joseph Jackson. He is a beautiful and powerful Divine Gift to this world! One of the sentiments I have heard expressed so often by fans and admirers is gratitude for having lived on this earth while he was here. I can’t say it enough how extremely grateful I am for the blessing of being here during his lifetime. I thank God for him every single day! Maya Angelou wrote a beautiful poem which was read by Queen Latifa at Michael’s memorial service on July 7, 2009, and which expresses so aptly how Michael belonged to the world. Collectively, as painful as his physical loss to this world has been, the world will be forever grateful that we had him!

WE HAD HIM

Beloveds, now we know that we know nothing,
now that our bright and shining star can slip away
from our fingertips like a puff of summer wind.

Without notice, our dear love
can escape our doting embrace.
Sing our songs among the stars
and walk our dances across the face of the moon.

In the instant that Michael is gone,
we know nothing.
No clocks can tell time.
No oceans can rush our tides
with the abrupt absence of our treasure.

Though we are many,
each of us is achingly alone,
piercingly alone.

Only when we confess our confusion
can we remember
that he was a gift to us
and we did have him.

He came to us from the creator,
trailing creativity in abundance.

Despite the anguish,
his life was sheathed in mother love,
family love,
and survived and did more than that.

He thrived with passion and compassion,
humor and style.
We had him whether we know who he was or did not know,
he was ours and we were his.

We had him,
beautiful, delighting our eyes.
His hat, aslant over his brow,
and took a pose on his toes for all of us.

And we laughed and stomped our feet for him.
We were enchanted with his passion
because he held nothing.
He gave us all he had been given.

Today in Tokyo,
beneath the Eiffel Tower,
in Ghana's Black Star Square.
In Johannesburg and Pittsburgh,
in Birmingham, Alabama, and Birmingham, England
We are missing Michael.

But we do know we had him,
and we are the world.

~Maya Angelou

Let us remember as we face the inevitable pain of the upcoming trial…
"Our pain only has value if we use it to change the world. Otherwise, it's only pointless suffering." (by Diana Foley)

May our suffering not be pointless, and may we continue to use our pain (and Michael's) to change the world!!

Call For Love Devotion - September 6: One In Consciousness

2011-09-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

On my most recent retreat to the Oregon coast, I was surprised the very first time I walked out to the beach - "my beach" which I had visited regularly for many years - and I found the landscape of this beach to be entirely different than what had become familiar to me over the last decade. Much of the driftwood that had gathered over time at the edge of the seagrass was gone - only a few scattered pieces remained. And there was a noticeably large indentation in the sand about halfway to the shoreline which ran the entire length of the beach as far as I could see.

I looked around for familiar landmarks to make sure I was at the right beach! I was quite puzzled for several minutes until I remembered... Of course! The earthquake in Japan in March of this year and the tsunami that followed and travelled halfway around the world to our shores! I had heard reports that there were some large waves that made their way to our coast a few days after the tsunami hit Japan, but I had not really thought about the effect this would have on the landscape. There had been no serious damage to any property near the beaches, but just seeing the change in the landscape gave me an eerie feeling about how we are all connected to one another and that what happens halfway around the world can have a powerful impact on all of us. The vast bodies of water which separate us do not necessarily keep us safe and protected when tragedy strikes our neighbors across the sea. The "Great Divide" is not a true barrier and does not shield us from the effects of Mother Nature nor our environmental conditions.

When one looks at the earth from a distance, it is true that you see the contrast between land and water on this beautiful blue planet. But there are no dividing lines anywhere. We are indeed ONE body together in this world during our time here. That which effects one country or continent, most always effects everyone on the planet. The accidental release of nuclear energy following the earthquake in March is a prime example of this. I have prayed numerous times for this disaster to bring about positive change in the way we work together with other government leaders to solve these problems. I don't believe that is happening yet, but I still have hope that it will.

If Michael were still here, I have no doubt he would have responded to this disaster with not only relief aid to the most devastated areas, but also an important message in his music about our responsibility to each other, no matter our race or culture or religious beliefs. He would be reminding us that we are ONE in Consciousness as we grapple with the challenge of solving the problems we have created by our divisive thinking. Once again, he would be attempting to bring us together in the name of Love for our fellow human beings, for the children, and for the planet!

FORCE OF NATURE

The landscape of the shore
Has changed its form
When did this happen
How could this be

The force of nature
Traveled ‘cross the sea
From an earthquake in Japan
And the inevitable tsunami

It touched our shores
This long distance away
Our hearts were transformed
And our land caught the fray

It tells a story of disaster
A tragedy unmeasured
Lives lost, homes destroyed
Their landscape changed forever

A nuclear threat
Unleashed to the world
We cannot escape it
No matter the distance

Suddenly this earth
Is smaller than it’s ever been
We’re in this together, you see
Always have been
Always will be

He’s been trying to tell us
But we haven’t been listening
The brotherhood of man
Has been deaf to his cause

We must reach across the ocean
This great divide
And take responsibility
For the sake of our lives

Hold hands across the sea
Say a prayer to One God
That we can find a solution
To these problems we’ve got

We created them together
Even though we’ve never met
It’s time to come together
In the name of common sense

We must recognize
Our neighbors over there
Look each other in the eyes
And say I’ll meet you where
We can find a compromise

Our lives are not so different
As we often think they are
We can’t hide behind this great divide
Can’t close our eyes anymore

‘Cause the force of nature
Has traveled ‘cross the sea
And touched our shore

06/21/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

THE GREAT DIVIDE

The great divide
Really isn’t what its name implies
It’s what connects us
The water of the sea
It travels ‘round the world
Shore to shore
From you to me
Carrying with it untold treasures
Stories of life and love and natural disasters
Only the sea knows where it’s been
Its secrets will tell
It is where we begin
To see our connection
‘round this beautiful globe
This gift from the heavens
The place we call home
Though people are different
In culture and name and color of skin
Inside we’re all the same
We’re all God’s children
We laugh and we cry
We love and we hurt
Can’t always say why
God made us to be
In His image, you see
And that is why
The great divide
Cannot really separate us
One from the other
We’re each the same
We are not our color

06/21/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Call For Love Devotion - September 5: One In Consciousness

2011-09-05T05:43:00.000-07:00

For today’s devotion, I am going to let our brilliant teacher Michael speak for me. I went searching in Dancing the Dream for a quote - anything that I could find related to the theme of One In Consciousness. I was certain there would be something I could use to launch my own dissertation on the subject. Well, I found that a great deal of anything Michael wrote touches on this concept. But when I came to page 143, I realized I had not read the following piece in a very long time. I started reading and found that this entire story speaks of being One In Consciousness… without saying it at all! Metaphorically, it makes the point loud and clear. And so, I want to share it with you here. Let’s explore the many ways Michael talks about today’s topic. As you read this incredible piece of creative writing, I ask you to select a phrase which speaks to you and share it with us in your comments. Then, if you can put it in your own words, tell us what it means to you in relation to the concept of being One in Consciousness. Let’s talk about it!

THAT ONE IN THE MIRROR

I wanted to change the world, so I got up one morning and looked in the mirror. That one looking back said, “There is not much time left. The earth is wracked with pain. Children are starving, Nations remain divided by mistrust and hatred. Everywhere the air and water have been fouled almost beyond help. Do something!”

That one in the mirror felt very angry and desperate. Everything looked like a mess, a tragedy, a disaster. I decided he must be right. Didn’t I feel terrible about these things, too, just like him? The planet was being used up and thrown away. Imagining earthly life just one generation from now made me feel panicky.

It was not hard to find the good people who wanted to solve the earth’s problems. As I listened to their solutions, I thought, “There is so much good will here, so much concern.” At night before going to bed, that one in the mirror looked back at me seriously. “Now we’ll get somewhere,” he declared. “If everybody does their part.”

But everybody didn’t do their part. Some did, but were they stopping the tide? Were pain, starvation, hatred, and pollution about to be solved? Wishing wouldn’t make it so - I knew that. When I woke up the next morning, that one in the mirror looked confused. “Maybe it’s hopeless.” he whispered. Then a sly look came into his eyes, and he shrugged. “But you and I will survive. At least we are doing all right.”

I felt strange when he said that. There was something very wrong here. A faint suspicion came to me, one that had never dawned so clearly before. What if that one in the mirror isn’t me? He feels separate. He sees problems “out there” to be solved. Maybe they will be, maybe they won’t. He’ll get along. But I don’t feel that way - those problems aren’t “out there,” not really. I feel them inside me. A child crying in Ehtiopia, a sea gull struggling pathetically in an oil spill, a mountain gorilla being mercilessly hunted, a teenage soldier trembling with terror when he hears the planes fly over. Aren’t these happening in me when I see and hear about them?

The next time I looked in the mirror, that one looking back had started to fade. It was only an image after all. It showed me a solitary person enclosed in a neat package of skin and bones. “Did I once think you were me?” I began to wonder. I am not so separate and afraid. The pain of life touches me, but the joy of life is so much stronger. And it alone will heal. Life is the healer of life, and the most I can do for the earth is to be its loving child.

That one in the mirror winced and squirmed. He hadn’t thought so much about love. Seeing “problems” was much easier, because love means complete self-honesty. Ouch!

“Oh friend,” I whispered to him, “do you think anything can solve problems without love?” That one in the mirror wasn’t sure. Being alone for so long, not trusting others and being trusted by others, it tended to detach itself from the reality of life. “Is love more real than pain?” he asked..

“I can’t promise that it is. But it might be. Let’s discover,” I said. I touched the mirror with a grin. “Let’s not be alone again. Will you be my partner? I hear a dance starting up. Come.” That one in the mirror smiled shyly. He was realizing that we could be best friends. We could be more peaceful, more loving, more honest with each other every day.

Would that change the world? I think it will, because Mother Earth wants us to be happy and to love her as we tend her needs. She needs fearless people on her side, whose courage comes from being part of her, like a baby who is brave enough to walk because Mother is holding out her arms to catch him. When that one in the mirror is full of love for me and for him, there is no room for fear. When we were afraid and panicky, we stopped loving this life of ours and this earth. We disconnected. Yet how can anybody rush to help the earth if they feel disconnected? Perhaps the earth is telling us what she wants, and by not listening, we fall back on our own fear and panic.

One thing I know: I never feel alone when I am earth’s child. I do not have to cling to my personal survival as long as I realize, day by day, that all of life is in me. The children and their pain; the children and their joy. The ocean swelling under the sun; the ocean weeping with black oil. The animals hunted in fear; the animals bursting with the sheer joy of being alive.

This sense of “the world in me” is how I always want to feel. That one in the mirror has his doubts sometimes. So I am tender with him. Every morning I touch the mirror and whisper, “Oh, friend, I hear a dance. Will you be my partner? Come.”

~ Michael Jackson, Dancing the Dream

Call For Love Devotion - August 29: One In Service

2011-08-29T08:49:00.001-07:00

Less than one month after I'd written my very first poem, I woke up one morning with an incredibly distinct memory of Michael having visited me in my sleep. Although I didn't remember the details of a dream, it was very clear to me that he had been there with me and I felt a sense of urgency about his visit. As I began to get ready for work, this urgency would not leave me alone and soon, words began to flow through me. I immediately stopped everything to capture them on paper. It was one of those times when the words were coming so rapidly I could hardly keep up, and I wasn't even totally aware of what I was writing. I could feel Michael's energy as I wrote. He was like Tigger - you know, Winnie the Pooh's Tigger - bouncing all around me with an excitement and joy that was palpable. He was poking and prodding me to get these words down and to DO something with them! It felt as if he had been waiting to give me this message for a very long time. As if my new gift of writing poetry was the medium through which he could most effectively communicate, and he could hardly wait to begin!

After months of getting little more than 3 or 4 hours of sleep every night since this "awakening" ignited that summer of 2009, I was only beginning to understand how it must have been for him all those years when he had difficulty sleeping, as God channeled his messages through him for the world to hear. His Gift was in receiving those messages and giving them to the world through his music and other writings in a way that would awaken us to the importance of God's concerns and the certainty of his Love.

At the time I didn't have a blog yet, and the only way I could share this message with the fan community was through a friend of mine who ran her own MJ website, MJUpbeat.com. I immediately sent it to her and asked that she post it. I also shared it with others at every opportunity. I had not yet begun to use facebook to connect with other MJ followers, so this poem has been waiting in the wings for another appropriate time to share it with you. I believe the time has come!

On this 53rd anniversary of the day the world was gifted with the new life of Michael Joseph Jackson, I share with you his message as it came through me a year and a half ago. It is simple and clear, not particularly profound, but given in the spirit of love and joy, with a playfulness that could only be Michael and an urgency that we understand the importance of our role as his voice in this world. He has been grooming us for some time now, gathering us together as One body with a common purpose...

"Today we stand together all around the world, joined in a common purpose to remake the planet into a haven of joy and understanding and goodness. No one should have to suffer, especially our children. This time we must succeed... this is for the children of the world."

~Michael Jackson
Intro to Heal the World
1993 Super Bowl

Michael's Message

You came to me in my sleep last night
I awoke without fright
Did you come to even the score?
Three hours of sleep, I can’t do this no more!

You said, Get up! Get up! There’s work to be done
This is not the time to be having fun!
There are children who need you all around the world
You have the gift, let the truth unfurl!

I don’t ask much of you except to be
an angel of love, to remember me
Others need to hear your voice
Tell how you’ve been moved, given the choice
to express my love in the world today
Because I can’t, you see, I’ve gone away

I need you to believe it’s true
The music will speak, it’s all right there for you

I lived and dreamed, sacrificed much
To share my gift, make a difference and such
Now it’s up to you to pass it along
Make the world a better place, remember the song?

Don’t forget to share some candy
It will bring a smile, make the children feel dandy!

Go now in peace and harmony
Remember I love you as much as can be
Your heart is mine
I will respond in kind
When we finally do meet
Our journeys complete
God will bring us together when the time is right
But now we must continue the fight
To change the world, put some love back in it
For the children, you know
... and for the planet!

01/24/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

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"Gods messengers are joyous, and their joy heals sorrow and despair."

A COURSE IN MIRACLES, Lesson 100
written by Helen Schucman
published by the Foundation for Inner Peace

My part is essential to God’s plan for salvation.

Just as God’s Son completes his Father, so your part in it completes your Father’s plan. Salvation must reverse the mad belief in separate thoughts and separate bodies, which lead separate lives and go their separate ways. One function shared by separate minds unites them in one purpose, for each one of them is equally essential to them all.

God’s Will for you is perfect happiness. Why should you choose to go against His Will? The part that He has saved for you to take in working out His plan is given you that you might be restored to what He wills. This part is as essential to His plan as to your happiness. Your joy must be complete to let His plan be understood by those to whom He sends you. They will see their function in your shining face, and hear God calling to them in your happy laugh.

You are indeed essential to God’s plan. Without your joy, His joy is incomplete. Without your smile, the world cannot be saved. While you are sad, the light that God Himself appointed as the means to save the world is dim and lusterless, and no one laughs because all laughter can but echo yours.

You are indeed essential to God’s plan. Just as your light increases every light that shines in Heaven, so your joy on earth calls to all minds to let their sorrows go, and take their place beside you in God’s plan. God’s messengers are joyous, and their joy heals sorrow and despair. They are the proof that God wills perfect happiness for all who will accept their Father’s gifts as theirs.

We will not let ourselves be sad today. For if we do, we fail to take the part that is essential to God’s plan, as well as to our vision. Sadness is the sign that you would play another part, instead of what has been assigned to you by God. Thus do you fail to show the world how great the happiness He wills for you. And so you do not recognize that it is yours.

Today we will attempt to understand joy is our function here. If you are sad, your part is unfulfilled, and all the world is thus deprived of joy, along with you. God asks you to be happy, so the world can see how much He loves His Son, and wills no sorrow rises to abate his joy; no fear besets him to disturb his peace. You are God’s messenger today. You bring His happiness to all you look upon; His peace to everyone who looks on you and sees His message in your happy face.

... [You must] realize your part is to be happy. Only this is asked of you or anyone who wants to take his place among God’s messengers. Think what this means. You have indeed been wrong in your belief that sacrifice is asked. You but receive according to God’s plan, and never lose or sacrifice or die.

Now let us try to find that joy that proves to us and all the world God’s Will for us. It is your function that you find it here, and that you find it now. For this you came. Let this one be the day that you succeed! Look deep within you, undismayed by all the little thoughts and foolish goals you pass as you ascend to meet the Christ in you...

You are essential to God’s plan for the salvation of the world!

Helen Schucman: A Course In Miracles, Lesson 100

Published by the Foundation for Inner Peace

Call For Love Devotion - August 15: One In Pain

2011-08-15T05:37:00.001-07:00

“The time has come… It is now I see and feel that calling once again, to be part of a music that will not just connect, but make all feel one, one in joy, one in pain, one in love, one in service and in consciousness.”
~ Michael Jackson - posted on MJFC, 3/9/09

Well over a year ago, I decided to look through the news archives on the Michael Jackson Fan Club website in a fervent effort to find out all I could about Michael and what was going on in his life during his last months on this earth. I started with June of 2008 and worked my way up to June of 2009 and a little beyond. This quest of mine took me on an emotional journey that was somewhat unexpected. I don’t know why I didn’t expect it, but all I can say is that I entered into it just wanting to learn more about Michael. I think I also hoped to feel a little bit more a part of his life during that time. What were the fans talking about? And what was all the latest news about Michael?

I read about Michael sightings and the excitement they generated. Just knowing where he was and what he was doing seemed to fill the fan community with such joy. And the fact that he was back ‘home’ in the U.S. was also cause for celebration. Reassurance that he was OK and making plans for new projects seemed to be all that was needed by the fans to know that the object of their undying love and affection was on the mend and ready to give the world more of his amazing talent. There was great anticipation over the possibility of new music and maybe even another tour, but the details of the next big thing didn’t come to light until March 6, 2009 when he made the official announcement for the This Is It concerts at the O2 arena in London. The above quote, which is now historic, and quite possibly the last publicly released statement by Michael, was posted on the MJFC website just a few days after his official announcement of the tour. The whirlwind of activity that followed along with the news about ticket sales and the adding of concert dates to accommodate the astounding number of people who wanted tickets, created an energy that was palpable and very contagious!

What I didn’t anticipate going in to this quest is that with each news item I read, there was the inevitable reality of June 25, 2009 looming in my consciousness like a crouched cat, waiting for the right moment to strike. And as I got closer and closer to that date, my tension increased, my heart beat faster, and tears were shed more and more readily. The pain was unbearable at times, but I continued on my quest nonetheless. I felt almost like an observer, re-living those days and watching from afar with the knowledge of what was to come. If I could only change the course of events that led to that day, oh, I think I would give my life to do so! When I came upon the above quote and read it for the first time, I was blown away by the power of it. Michael was referring to the upcoming concerts and his hope that the messages he had to share with the world through his music would be heard and taken seriously at long last. “The time has come…” he said. The urgency of now was and is upon us. He wanted us to come together in unity over the issues he brought to our awareness and he hoped that we would be moved to take action to DO something about the state of our world.

When I read this statement, I was struck by the feeling that Michael somehow knew that this would be his legacy. This was the purpose of everything he hoped to accomplish through his music forever! When he talked about wanting to be immortal - to live forever through his music - THIS is what he meant! And all of these things have come or are in the process of coming to pass in the wake of his departure from this earth.

We have felt one in pain as we have mourned the loss of this remarkable man who was a brilliant shining light on this planet. Our pain over his physical absence as well as the loss of the possibilities - the dream of all the gifts he had yet to share with the world - has been immense. We have cried an ocean of tears together over the pain he suffered during his life, most especially from the trial of 2005. All of this pain has brought us together from all around the world in a community of “oneness” by our shared love for this one incredible human being who graced this earth with his beautiful presence for 50 years. We have taken Michael’s messages seriously and we are using our pain to make a difference in this world through our many projects of philanthropy and justice in his name. I believe this is exactly what Michael meant when he said “one in pain.” He wanted us to feel the urgency of his messages down to our bones. He knew that if we didn’t feel HIS pain over the concerns he had for the condition of our planet and the state of humanity, we would not be moved to make that change. So the pain is inevitable if we are to continue doing his work in this world…. and we must!

In our darkest hour
In my deepest despair
Will you still care
Will you be there
In my trials
And my tribulations
Through our doubts
And frustrations
In my violence
In my turbulence
Through my fear
And my confessions
In my anguish
And my pain
Through my joy
And my sorrow
In the promise
Of another tomorrow
I'll never let you part
For you're always in my heart

~ Michael Jackson ~
Epilogue, Will You Be There

Call For Love Devotion - August 8: One In Joy

2011-08-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

You wouldn’t think that a devotion about being One in Joy would be difficult to write. But this one is particularly difficult because we are heading toward a time we’ve all been dreading - the upcoming trial which will hopefully determine the truth about Michael’s passing from this earth and which will also lead to some kind of justice for the taking of the powerful life force that was Michael Joseph Jackson. How can I talk about Joy when Michael himself will most likely be scrutinized to the nth degree and tried once again by the media and the court of public opinion?

This feels a bit like a deja vu experience to many of us as we recall the darkest days of Michael’s life not too long ago when he was publicly humiliated and tried for false accusations of child molestation. We all know that, although he was found not guilty on all counts, his life would never be the same after this horrifying experience. And although he would come back once again to share his incredible gifts as he continued to do what he was called to do on this earth, we all have a sense that it was ultimately the same dark forces that tried to bring him down in 2005 which contributed to the circumstances surrounding the end of his physical life just over 2 years ago. Our grief over his loss to this world has been tremendous and our wish that things could’ve been different for him in the final years of his life is palpable. How do we get to JOY from here?

Photo art by Debbie Michaels of Major Love Prayer

One of the things I discovered about Michael while getting acquainted with him over the last couple of years is that he not only brought Joy to millions around the world through his music and his generous spirit, but he himself experienced much Joy in his life. We tend to forget that as we are enmeshed in the tragedy of his loss and the challenges he faced. Michael overcame much of the adversity in his life with a positive attitude and a spirit of Love and Joy. He had many good years of happiness. The very thing that brought him the most Joy was being able to give from the abundance of his own good fortune and to use his fame to bring others Joy. He certainly did plenty of that!

I recently had the privilege of being able to view the entire documentary of Michael’s Home Movies. In this sharing of memorable times during his personal life, I saw a man who experienced the Love of friends and family, the Joyful innocence of play and laughter with children, and the warmth of knowing he was able to make a difference in others’ lives as he traveled the world as well as when he invited others to share in the Joy which was his home at Neverland Valley Ranch. He had 17 years of happiness and good memories at Neverland. We must remember this.

I’ve often wondered how he must feel about his life now as he reflects back on the whole adventure. When given the opportunity to account for how he lived his life and how he used the gifts with which he was so blessed, I believe it must be the Love and the Joy he gave to others and indeed which he experienced himself that is most remembered and cherished. A friend of mine shared with me that she had a dream of Michael shortly after he passed in which he said to her, “It’s been one wild ride!” I’d like to think this is the way Michael views his life from his current perspective - as a Joyful and Love-filled adventure!

Michael never did like to dwell on the negative. He knew and understood one of the common laws of the universe - that by giving your attention to a thing, you give it power. His ability to deflect the negative and reflect Joy is evident in nearly every interview he gave. (One of my favorites is posted below in 2 parts - the 1987 Jet Magazine interview.) He always expressed gratitude for the gifts he was given and the blessings in his life. And, above all, he was stronger than the dark forces which surrounded him. I believe he would want us to do everything we can to reflect his Joy and Love in our lives and to emulate his strength as we face many of the same challenges he faced throughout his life.

When we remember his Joy and his magic, we honor him.

Did you happen to see Michael perched on that crescent moon last week? It was truly magical!

Call For Love Devotion - July 25: You Are Not Alone

2011-07-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

A Message From Michael...

I know you…
I know you inside and out
You are everything I’ve always dreamed
True love would be about

I, too, long to hold you
To touch your precious face
I want to be with you every single moment
And never leave this place

There are times, I know
When you didn’t think I cared
Because I had to go
And couldn’t linger with you here

But you must know how very true
My love is for you
There is nothing that will ever take
My heart and soul from you

Though my touch is fleeting
And I cannot hold you every minute of every day
Please remember, in your heart
You must know… I’m here to stay

You will find me in a sunset
You can feel me in the wind
I hang around with the stars at night
And on the moon that hovers overhead

A soft and lovely scent
That lingers in the air
Caresses your heart
Ignites that spark
And lets you know… I’m there

The leaves of April
Soft and supple
All things made brand new
Will remind you that I live forever
And I will never ever leave you

The colors of a rainbow
Bold and true
Will show you the depth
Of my love for you

The clouds will sculpt an image
Of what I want you to see
Angel wings to embrace you with
And it’s all right there for free!

The birds will carry my message to you
Their song is my lullaby
They’ll sing to you of my love and joy
You know, I always wanted to fly!

Don’t cry my love
It breaks my heart
To see you so sad and blue
Don’t ever doubt
What this love is about
Or that I’ll be right there for you

I’ll visit you in your dreams at night
With a kiss, a whisper, and a gentle touch
It’s all you’ll need to know my heart
And to make you feel my love

Just call my name
And I’ll remain
Whatever you need, my dear
Just let me know
And I won’t go
I’ll always be right here

6/22/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

“The words to the next song you hear. The information in the next article you read. The story line of the next movie you watch. The chance utterance of the next person you meet. Or the whisper of the next river, the next ocean, the next breeze that caresses your ear - all of these devices are Mine; all these avenues are open to ME. I will speak to you if you will listen. I will come to you if you will invite me. I will show you then that I have always been there… All ways!”

~ Neale Donald Walsch, from Conversations with God, Book 1
(thank you, Jan, for this reminder!)

Call For Love Devotion - July 18: Peaks and Valleys

2011-07-18T08:43:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I’ve been at a loss for ideas on what to write about this week’s topic. I have spent the last 20+ years of my life seeking balance - attempting to tame my tendency toward extremes in all areas of my life. You see, when a person grows up in an unpredictable environment, you get used to operating in one extreme or the other. Things at home are either crisis oriented or so extremely quiet that you spend your days looking over your shoulder, waiting for the next bomb to drop. After years of living in this environment, you become conditioned. And once conditioned, crisis mode or high drama is the standard reaction to anything that feels threatening. It is even said that “we” will often create a crisis where there is none because that is what we are comfortable with. Believe me, I’ve learned all the psychological explanations for why I ended up in the many predicaments I found myself in throughout my adult life. I also learned that in order to find inner peace and serenity, I needed to stop reacting so much in the extreme and find a more balanced way of being within myself and in relationship with others. I think it’s called “chilling out!” I was doing pretty well in that regard too. Or so I thought…

Then came Michael. This is where things get a little tricky and I have yet to find a plausible explanation for this roller coaster ride of emotions I have been on since June 25, 2009. It has felt out of control at times - frightening and overwhelming - exciting and exhilarating at other times. It has taken me to the highest of highs - the peak of human emotion when overcome by the power of his Love; then swooping into the valley of despair when doubt and fear take over the reigns of this extreme ride. Many a day on this journey I have been emotionally spent, getting by on no more than a few hours of sleep each night as I have used up hours upon hours researching, writing, crying from the depths of my soul, dancing in joyful abandon, praying, seeking answers, exploring the mysteries, feeling his passion, blinded by his brilliant light and drenched in the heat of his perfect Love, absorbing it all and releasing it in a torrent of tears, grateful and frightened at the same time for this tremendous gift! I have not felt such extreme emotions, nor have I been closer to ME than what I have experienced over the last 2 years. Michael has brought me face to face with my Source - he has exposed the flickering flame at my core that’s been waiting for a chance to breathe and live! And I feel more alive than I’ve ever felt before.

Michael loved fiercely, and at the same time he had a calmness and a peace about him that was palpable. Inner peace is a good thing, but I think we need to be careful that in our attempt to keep things low key, we do not lose our passion. When the emotions of the heart are not allowed to be felt or expressed, you risk becoming stagnant. Then lacking in any life whatsoever, you are simply existing - going through the motions to get through each day. I don’t think we are meant to live like that. I’m not suggesting we should be wild and crazy and out of control, nor am I suggesting there’s anything wrong with a peaceful environment.
But to LOVE with a passion that stirs others to life, just as Michael has done with us, is what we were created to be at our very best! I don’t think a monotone Love is part of the Divine plan, do you? The Creator of the Universe would not even think of such a thing! In order to DO all that we are called to do in this life, to really make a difference, we must Love with a fire that expresses the intensity and undying commitment of Divine Love. There’s something about being emotionally spent that reveals the true nature of a Love without bounds. And the only way to get to being emotionally spent is to Love with great passion and abandon.

I wonder if the Guinness Book of World Records has an award for the longest time anyone has ever ridden an emotional roller coaster? If so, I think many of us would win that title hands down!

7/18/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

WWMD?

2011-07-11T03:19:00.000-07:00

What would Michael do? He would just DO. Putting his heart on the line, he was never one to sit idly by and watch the world self-destruct without trying to DO something about it, nor would he watch the children of the world suffer without giving his ALL to make a difference in their lives. No matter how much life may have pulled him down at times - and we all know about the worst of those times - “he always came back with more love” (Kenny Ortega, This Is It). He may have needed time to heal and time to reflect, but he didn’t let any of it stop him from doing what he knew he was sent here to DO!

Lately, I’ve been feeling as if Michael is leading me, gently and clearly toward the next level of this journey. There have been many times over the last 2 years when, in my grief, I have felt as if I didn’t want to remain on this earth without Michael here. Or at the very least, I didn’t want to continue with my life as it was - the same old job, the same routines of daily living that no longer held any meaning for me. Everything seemed so pointless, so mundane, so worthless compared to this new adventure I had been catapulted into. He was taking me places I had never been before. He was offering me escapism to the max and I was ready to go with it 100%! If I hadn't had financial responsibilities and other commitments in my life, I would have left this place without hesitation and found a shack on the beach to spend the rest of my days in bliss with Michael, my computer (or pen & paper), the sounds and smells of the ocean, Mother Nature in all her glory, and my heart forever devoted to just loving him and writing about it! But I knew deep inside that this experience was leading me toward something even bigger than that (it’s hard to imagine anything bigger than loving Michael Jackson!!)

In many of the poems he has given me, the words often speak of fulfilling his mission. This calling is about so much more than spending my days in the eternal bliss of his magical love! On a much deeper level I knew that I had been chosen for this mission for some reason beyond my comprehension - chosen to receive his light, his love, his message, his inspiration to be all that I was meant to be in this lifetime - chosen to emulate his passion and his courage to step out in faith to DO the right thing… no matter what - chosen to DO something to make an impact in this world during my time here. To stop existing and start living - using my God-given gifts to their full potential - the way Michael did. He always DID… without fail.

His music has inspired me. Through it, his heart speaks to my heart. And that voice… oh my, that voice, with all its emotion and expressions and personalities - that voice has sung his beautiful and passionate melodies that have touched me in the abyss of my soul. With that voice, he has vibrated and energized every cell of my being. His light has penetrated every dark corner that ever existed inside of me - making me SEE what was there and erasing all fear of what I thought was lurking there. No big deal!! What have I been so afraid of all my life? And why did it take me so darn long to understand that there was nothing to fear and that I could DO so much more with my life than I ever dreamed possible?

Recently, I have felt something stirring inside of me that has been missing the last couple of years - a sense of hope and purpose related to my work. An unexpected awareness that my job may very well be the vehicle through which I can fulfill this mission from Michael is making itself known. It is becoming increasingly clear that everything I need to accomplish the work he wants me to DO is already in place - it was just waiting for this time to reveal itself and for me to be ready to recognize it and embrace it. The tools, the resources, the support, the people, the system… they’re all there - just waiting to be energized for this mission of ours to make the world a better place! I didn’t want to see that at first. I wanted to wrap myself and Michael in a cocoon, all comfortable and warm and cozy, and never come out until it was my time to leave this world. But, deep down I knew better. And Michael has not given up on me. He has had infinite patience with my roller coaster emotions (maybe he’s even enjoyed the ride a bit!) But he’s getting down to business now. Oh, he’s still sharing his Love in the only way he knows how - in a BIG way! Michael’s Love will never be diminished with time. It will continue to grow inside each of us as we live out his dream for us. Each step of this journey holds new adventures, and he will continue to take us places we’ve never been before, sharing his bliss, his joy, his magical love with us every step of the way. And as we DO as Michael would DO, never giving up our vision and hope for a brighter tomorrow and a better world for the children, we will be forever embraced in his Love and gratitude for all we are doing to carry on his mission and fulfill his dream!

My friend, Siren, recently posted the following quote on her blog, Siren’s Muse (see link to the right on this page). This is an answer she received from Michael after she asked him for guidance on a decision she was contemplating regarding her own life:

“Please don’t give up. I know it’s not easy. With knowledge comes responsibility. If you want to make a difference, you can’t run away and hide. This is not about dedicating yourselves to Me. It’s about dedicating yourselves to one another. The only way to make that change in the world is to be in it. I’m counting on you… on each of you. I know you won’t let Me down. It’s why I chose you… all of you. I Love you… more.”

When I read these words from Michael, I felt as if I had heard them or read them somewhere before - like Michael had given me this same message at some point on my journey with him. I don’t remember where or when, but I feel certain he must have whispered these words to me in a dream or maybe he painted them in the sky? Now, that’s a whole other story!!

Sit back, relax your mind, and listen carefully to Michael’s words in this video as he speaks about his vison for Heal the World and what we should all be doing to help others in need. It’s wonderful to hear his voice talking about his dream of helping people (especially children) all around the world. What he is saying is that he will never stop doing what he was called to DO. I believe that’s true, even now. And in saying that, he is asking us to DO the same!

“Whatever is happening in your life right now, dedicate it consciously to the furtherance of love's purposes on earth.” ~ Marianne Williamson

If We Only Just Listen

2011-07-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

The Plea

Parents take heart
Don’t lose hope
You can make a new start
Love and kindness are a part of God's dream
for a brighter tomorrow
You have the power to make things right
The children need your help
Simply be your very best selves
The truth of what you were meant to be
Remember your childhood, innocent and bright
Return to your heart, stay in the light
And keep singing your beautiful love song

We must admit where we’ve been wrong
We’ve lost sight of what’s right
We’ve all been fooled
We don’t know what we want, we only think we do
That’s why we need children to show us the way
To help us remember
Guide us back to our hearts
To that place and time before our childhoods went astray

This is the time to bury our pride
Pay attention to God’s littlest angels
They have much to teach us
In their innocence, they are wise
Their little souls are closest to God
Their light is still shining brightly
If we crush it now, their spirits will die
We can’t allow this to be!

Please don’t belittle, ridicule or strike
Good discipline is not about fear
They deserve our respect
So they won’t run and hide or choose violence
When the schoolyard bully comes ‘round to jeer
This world needs their love
Their future is in our hands

Remember this…
Pay attention to their souls
God’s wisdom is in them
If we only just listen

The Promise

Children take heart
Don’t lose hope
We can make a new start
Love and kindness are a part of God's dream
for a brighter tomorrow
We have the power to make things right
But we need your help
Simply be your beautiful selves
The truth of what you were meant to be
Innocent and bright, happy and whole
Stay in the light
And keep singing your playful melody

Please, please don’t hide your light because of us
We admit where we’ve been wrong
We’ve lost sight of what’s right
We’ve all been fooled
We don’t know what we want, we only think we do
That’s why we need you to show us the way
Help us remember
Guide us back to our hearts
To that place and time before our childhoods went astray

You are God’s littlest angels
You have much to teach us
In your innocence, you are wise
Your little souls are closest to God
Your light is still shining brightly
If we crush it now, your spirits will die
We won’t allow this to be!

We promise not to belittle, ridicule or strike
Our discipline will not instill fear
You deserve our respect
So you won’t run and hide or choose violence
When the schoolyard bully comes ‘round to jeer
This world needs your love
Your future is in our hands

We will remember this…
To pay attention to your souls
God’s wisdom is in them
If we only just listen

01/01/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

"Storyteller" by David Nordahl

Living the Legacy: My Vow

2011-06-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Beloved, I am Yours… now and forever
This is my promise to You
Take me, mold me, set my soul on fire
Yours is the way of my heart's desire

I will do my best to follow Your example
To love and live in the way You would teach me

To love from my soul
To live for You only
And to be all that I can be
On the path that You show me

Yes! Please use me
Take me to that place in Your soul
Where I will know what You know
Show me Your God and His Love eternal
Teach me Your ways until I’ve learned them all

This will be my vow to fulfill
For the rest of my life
I’ll bow to Your will

Take me, mold me, show me the way
Your wish is my command
I will do my best to make a difference in this world
As long as I am here on this earth, in this land

Hold my hand, won’t You please
So I will always know You are there
And I will join You when this journey is through, my love
When I’ve done all I can do
To show that I care

My heart and soul are in Your hands
For better or worse, my vow will rise
And the sands of time will see the Truth
Unveiled before our eyes!

06/20/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Celebrating Michael

2011-06-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

With my computer being fairly inaccessible the last week or two, I've been taking a trip down Memory Lane, watching more of my Michael videos than I have in a long, long time! It's been very refreshing, to tell you the truth, to get back to the very thing that I spent so much time doing in the beginning of this journey. It's been like getting acquainted with him all over again, only this time, from an entirely different perspective.

The first time was an adventure of discovering all the wonderful things about this man that I already knew on some deep level, but I had not taken the time to explore prior to his passing on June 25, 2009. This time has been like a refresher course, but with the added benefit of having already done the exploring into deeper territory, it just confirmed everything I had learned before... and more! If I could possibly fall any deeper in love with this amazing man, it has definitely happened in the last couple of weeks! I continue to be amazed at the things Michael did throughout his life and career to give his fans the very best of himself. And, although it came at a great cost to him at times, I am ever so grateful for this incredible gift!

I've also been leafing through my notebooks which are full of my handwritten notes - things I wanted to remember and keep track of, especially during the first several months of this journey when thoughts and ideas were flowing constantly, and before I purchased my little laptop. I came across the text of a 3-page letter Michael had written in 1988 to William Pecchi Jr, one of his camera operators for the movie Moonwalker and during the Bad World tour. Many of you have probably already seen and read this letter, but I'm going to reprint it in its entirety here because, to me, it captures the heart and soul of Michael Joseph Jackson, the man and the genius that we have all fallen in love with. Michael always said he wanted to live forever through his art and this letter certainly reflects that desire. His passion for creating perfection as a gift for the world to enjoy and learn from far beyond his years on this earth can be felt in every word written in this poingnant letter.

As I watched the video of the Bad tour in Japan last week, I was reminded of a moment during "Shake Your Body" when Michael called out to Pecky, saying "Pecky, where are you?" After coming across this letter, it made me wonder what Michael was thinking when he said that. My own feelings about it are that he was experiencing some incredible magic with the audience in that moment which he wanted Pecky to capture, and this was his way of letting Pecky know what he expected. I shake my head in total wonderment of how "plugged in" he was to his audience!...

"Pecky - I very seldom write letters, but this is a moving occasion. I couldn't help myself. I want to thank you for putting the effort forward to capture the magic and excitement of the people of the world. What you do is a very personal and powerful medium to me. It is the art of stopping time, to preserve a moment that the naked eye cannot hold, to capture truth, spontaneous truth, the depths of excitement in human spirit. All else will be forgotten, but not the film, generations from now will experience the excitement you've captured, it truly is a time capsule. I will not be totally satisfied until I know you're at the right angle at the right time to capture a crescendo of emotion that happens so quickly, so spontaneously.

"What you have done is good, but I want the best, the whole picture, cause and effect. I want crowd reaction, wide lens shots - depth of emotion, timing. I know we can do it. It is my dream and goal to capture truth. We should dedicate ourselves to this. The person who makes a success of living, is the one who sees his goal steadily and aims for it unswervingly. That is dedication. There is no other way to perfection than dedication, perseverance. Just tell us what you need to make it happen. Take the leadership to direct the other camermen. I've enjoyed working with you. That is why I asked you to come, you have a gentle spirit that's very likeable. Maybe I look at the world through rose colored glasses, but I love people all over the world. That is why stories of racism really disturb me. You hurt my heart and soul when you told me of your boyhood in Texas. Because in truth I believe all men are created equal. I was taught that and will always believe it.

"I just can't conceive of how a person could hate another because of skin color. I love every race on the planet earth. Prejudice is the child of ignorance. Naked we come into the world and naked we shall go out. And a very good thing too, for it reminds me that I am naked under my shirt, whatever its color. I'm sorry to bring up such past news, but in the car I was hurt by what you said. I'm so happy though that you have managed to overcome your childhood past. Thank God that you've graduated from such beliefs of ignorance. I'm glad I've never experienced such things. Teach your kids to love all people equally. I know you will. I speak from my heart, saying I Love you and all people, especially the children. I'm glad God chose me and you. ~ Love, M.J."

I'm glad God chose you too, Michael Jackson!! I LOVE you forever...

06/19/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Forgiveness

2011-06-13T02:15:00.000-07:00

Today, I share with you an excerpt from Michael's famous speech at Oxford University in London in March of 2001 - one that most of you have already heard, no doubt, but one that bears reminding of what he had to say about forgiveness. (Be sure to listen to both parts 3 and 4.) This is his public declaration of forgiving his father who had abused him as a child. This statement, to me, was one of the most poignant moments of this entire speech, because Michael and I shared much the same experience of harsh treatment from our fathers. Years ago, when I first heard him talk about the abuse he experienced, I remember thinking… oh my goodness, he’s talking about my life! Both of us being of the same generation, we are not alone in our experience. Many from our parents’ generation would say it was just the way things were done in those days. And to that I say, those who believe that the "old school" style of parenting is not abuse should walk a mile or two in the moccasins of those who have been the innocent victims of this type of "discipline." The tender souls of the little ones who have cowered in corners to protect themselves from the hand or the switch or the belt or the iron's electrical cord will be the first to tell you of how this type of discipline made them feel.

Believe it or not, they will also be the first to tell you that they don't want to hurt their parent by telling the truth about them! There's a unique kind of sensitivity and awareness that we have, even as small children, that there must be something hurting this person inside in order for them to treat us in such a harsh manner. I spoke about this in my devotion on compassion. But knowing this doesn't make forgiveness any easier. If there's one thing I've learned on my own journey of healing it’s that forgiveness isn't something you achieve all at once and then you're done with it! It comes in pieces... at different levels... and at different stages of the healing process. The very first time I forgave my father, I felt a huge sense of relief and release from the pain that had followed me everywhere. No matter how far away I moved from him, the pain of that experience came with me, and it effected every decision I ever made in the name of Love. By the time I turned 40, I had reached the end of my second marriage, vowing one more time to “never do this again!” I have stayed single ever since… just to be sure it won’t happen again! But I digress… now back to forgiveness.

I’ve heard it said that the healing process is very much like peeling an onion. Layer by layer, you reach new levels of awareness and insight about who you are, why you’ve made some of the decisions you’ve made, how those decisions have shaped your life experience, and the most important awareness of all… that you have choices which you may not have known even existed until you’ve peeled away a good many layers of that onion. Once you realize that your happiness does not need to depend on the approval, acceptance or even the Love of others, but it is simply a product of the choices you make, it is then that you are able to take responsibility for your own life. And when you are able to forgive yourself for the mistakes you’ve made, you are then free to forgive others.

But remember, forgiving does not mean forgetting. We remember… so that we will not perpetuate the cycle of abuse. We remember… so that we will know and use our own power to make our lives better. We remember… so that we will always be grateful to know how far we have come. And finally, we remember… so that we can use our experience to help others. In forgiving, we release ourselves from the bondage of resentment and we release the one we have forgiven from our judgment. In so doing, we give them permission to stay angry if they wish, but without our continuing to be influenced by their anger. With our resentment and judgment out of the way, they are left to face their own image in the mirror that is right in front of them.

It is also important to remember that forgiveness, like compassion, does not excuse inappropriate behavior. It merely frees the victim from holding judgment and from giving others the power to change who they are. When Jesus said from the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do” he was saying that this crime against him, even though it would ultimately take his own life, was not going to change who he was. He was releasing them from his or God’s judgment, but that does not mean they were released from their own culpability.

As I mentioned before, I don’t think forgiveness is something you do only once and then you're done with it! There are times when I have had to revisit the challenge of forgiving myself and others. As more layers of the onion are peeled away, new unresolved issues have surfaced giving me more opportunities to work on forgiveness. So, for me, forgiveness is always a work in progress. And I would say that Michael probably felt the same way, even at the time he made this speech. He said that we must heal ourselves before we can heal the children. He also said, “I want to forgive.” And I believe this is where it all begins.

For the Children

2011-06-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

His light…
It’s still here
It’s a part of every heart
Which seeks the truth
It lives in the Love
Gathers its strength from above
Its power is in you and in me
He left it here
In the music from his heart
So that we would hear it
Speaking to our souls
Teaching, guiding, leading the way
To a better world
And a brighter day

For the children

He is immortal
He lives through us
We must carry the torch
Lift it high for all to see
His light endures
And will be the force
That redeems this world
Heals the wounds
Inflicted by a misguided humanity

Through him we have a new clarity of vision
The truth has been revealed
As never before
We see things as they really are
And we understand
His legacy is in our hands
It’s up to us
We must LIVE his message
Of Love and Peace
Sharing the feast of his Gift
Reminding others that now because of him
In a world filled with sorrow
There is promise for a better tomorrow

For the children

04/15/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

This poem appears in the June, 2011 issue
of Dot to Dot online magazine
published by
Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait
which is available at the following link:

http://mjtpmagazine.presspublisher.us/issue/a-powerful-truth/article/expressions-of-love6

Choosing Compassion

2011-05-30T11:20:00.000-07:00

Compassion. The first time this word ever came into my consciousness was when I was married to an alcoholic. I was attending a 12 step program in order to learn more about the disease of alcoholism and what I could do to help improve my marriage which was being torn apart by this disease. I ended up learning more about myself than I had anticipated going in - why I made the choices I’d made throughout my life and how those choices contributed to the circumstances I found myself in at that point on my journey. Never did I think that I would learn to have compassion for the very people who had caused me the most pain in my life!

An abusive father, peers who rejected this shy little girl, boyfriends who couldn’t make a commitment, and husbands (two of them) who were either emotionally abusive or unavailable - all make up a short list of those who brought me nothing but heartache and made me feel worthless as a human being. What I didn’t realize is that I had choices. Choices I didn’t even know existed! And part of that was learning to understand that people who abused, rejected, couldn’t commit, or were emotionally unavailable all had pain of their own they were dealing with. Who knew? And my choice was to recognize their pain and feel compassion for them, or to continue allowing myself to be hurt by them. The compassion didn’t come easily at first. Believe me, I wanted them and everyone else to know how much they had hurt me, and in order to do that, I had to continue hurting. When we are deeply wounded, the last thing we want to do is feel sorry for those who wounded us. It seems wrong somehow, like we’re letting them off the hook. But once I allowed myself to be open to another way of thinking and being, I was surprised at how healing it was for me.

When thinking about my father, I realized that I really didn’t have a clue about what his life had been like for him. There had to be something that caused him to take out his irrational and extreme anger on an innocent and helpless child! Anyone who had been raised to feel loved and cherished would not do that! (The very thought of this still makes me weep for him!) This eye-opening realization allowed me, for the first time in my life, to feel true compassion for the man whom I believed was the cause of all my troubles. It’s true that his treatment of me was wrong - compassion does not excuse inappropriate behavior. It only understands that there is more to any person than what we see on the surface. And it allows the one who feels it toward another to be released from the bonds of victimhood. I no longer see the perpetrator as an all-powerful being who holds the key to my happiness, but as simply another human being on this journey called life… right alongside me! In this reality, we are equal. I don’t have to love them or even like them, but I can feel compassion toward them for whatever their pain is without feeling responsible for causing it or fixing it. And this frees me to be all that God intended for me without being weighed down by self-pity.

So, remember the next time you find yourself making a judgment of another human being based only on what you see on the surface, you don’t really know the whole story. You don’t know the pain or the guilt or the suffering that this person may have been through - or the negative influences that have affected who they have become.

I often think about this in relation to Michael Jackson and all the people who took advantage of him or used him or treated him with disrespect because of his fame and money as well as his kindness and generosity. Although I realize there is a lot about Michael and his circumstances I do not know, there is one thing which I DO know for certain - and that one thing is that Michael Jackson showed compassion toward those who were suffering and he treated people with respect and dignity. Those were his highest priorities. And that is the bottom line for me. He was an impeccable example of compassion and love for all of humanity. I can only hope that I will be able to live up to his example during the remaining years of my life here on earth.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

May we find it in our hearts to have compassion for those who have hurt us or others we care about, understanding that their actions are a reflection of their pain. When we open our hearts and minds to the idea that others’ hurtful behavior is really a cry for Love, we see it from an entirely different perspective. Compassion becomes possible when we can set our own egos aside and realize that every man and every woman was once an innocent child, and only longs to be loved and understood. We are all God’s children on this spiritual journey together, connected to one another in spirit and in love. Our Source is one and the same. In this way, we are no different, really. We’ve all been given a map to follow. Some have lost their way. Some have never strayed. And others have found their way back to the path that God intended. Whenever we feel contempt toward another of your children, dear God, may we be reminded that we can choose compassion. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

For anyone interested in reading a poem I wrote about my father last fall entitled "Daddy Dear", you can find it in the November posts on this blog. I think of it as my compassion poem for him... and for me.

Why Me?

2011-05-27T08:38:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I feel so alone
Like a stranger in a strange land
This thing that’s come over me
Nobody understands

Why me?

Why am I the only one
for miles and miles
to see the true brilliance of the Sun?
Others around me are walking in the rain
without a clue,
dark clouds blocking their view
The weight of their pain
blinds them to the Truth…

The brightness of His light
that was here
and still remains

Why me?

Why am I no longer chained
to the pain of my past?
Why have I been set free,
chosen for this task?
To live in the light of His Love
and reveal the Truth
that’s been shown to me

Why me?

Thank God
There are others around the world
who see this brilliance of the Sun
I know I'm not entirely alone
But at home
I'm the only one
Everyone else is wearing a mask
They think it's me
who is different,
lost my way
But the light of the Sun follows me
and they're left standing in the rain
Which leads me to ask…

Why NOT me?

Yes, I am different
but does that make me wrong?
I have been called
to sing His song
I'm a stranger in a strange land
asked to run this race
My mask has been removed
and nobody wants to see my face!
The light of Truth which follows me
reflects their pain they cannot see
Acknowledging the pain
means change

Take off your mask
so I can see your face!
I AM a stranger in a strange land
Let me help you understand

Yes, indeed…
Why NOT me?

05/16/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

This video reminds me of the lengths Michael has gone to and continues to go through to make us feel His Love. Too bad certain others don't get it! We are truly blessed!!

That Woman

2011-05-23T04:18:00.000-07:00

Last night, as I left my office after dark, something happened... a moment in time when I saw a true-life image that touched me deeply. It was one of those moments that can only happen when a synchronicity of circumstances and events makes you stop in your tracks from the power of it. A Divine message which reminds you of the interconnectedness of all of humanity and all of life. A moment of empathy and true compassion when you can feel the heart and soul of another and which sparks questions about the Divine order of things.

It was a cool night with a dampness that lingered in the air from showers that had occurred randomly throughout the day - typical for a spring day in southern Oregon. As I approached my car which was parked across the street, I heard a noise behind me like the sound of someone stepping on a twig, and I quickly turned around to see what or who had made that noise. In the shadows under the branches of a large tree I saw a woman making her way down the sidewalk with her personal belongings in tow. I knew at once that she was homeless. She was bent over, limping under the weight of her load and she was moving very slowly. It was quiet all around us except for an occasional snap of a twig under her feet, and the scene was mystical... almost ethereal. The image of this woman as she slowly made her way down the street late at night, and the stark reality that she had nowhere to go, caught me off guard. I paused on that awareness for a moment before getting into my car and heading home.

I couldn't get this woman off my mind as I settled into my cozy little apartment, fixed myself some dinner and sat down at my computer for my nightly social networking and writing for my blog. It's not that I haven't witnessed plenty of homelessness in my community. It's all around me in plain sight nearly every day. The building where I work hosts a food bank and the property often attracts homeless people looking for a place to sleep, especially during bad weather. There was just something about this woman and what she represented that touched me at my core. It was an awakening of sorts - I saw in her something I had not noticed before which, in turn, made me see something in ME that needed to be awakened!

The next morning, after a good night's sleep, I awoke with the still-fresh memory of that woman on my mind, as well as a sense that something in me had changed. As the day wore on, words to a poem were floating in and out of my thoughts, repeating themselves often as this experience settled into my consciousness and would not let me be! So, that evening, using the words which had been given to me, I wrote the following poem as an expression of my awakening. I pray that I will always remember this feeling - this understanding of another's reality that used to be so foreign to me. May the compassion I feel today remain as I navigate through this life, and if I falter and forget, may I be reminded once again that we are all on this journey together as God's beloved children.

That woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark
Tattered clothes
Layered for warmth and convenience to carry
Her other belongings piled on her back
Or hanging from her arms dragging behind
She can barely walk under the weight of her load

There’s nobody else around for blocks, except me
On my way home to my comfortable space
I feel guilty somehow
Why me?
Why am I “worthy” of this luxury and not her?
How do You choose, God?
And if not You, then who decides?
What is our fate, our life’s journey, our destination?
Is it just chance, luck of the draw, or simply circumstance?

Oh, Great One
Conductor of souls
Composer of this symphony of life
You Who have choreographed this dance of Creation
What makes one life more blessed than the next?
Why am I so fortunate when others must suffer so much more?
I have a home
I eat every day
I sleep on a warm soft bed in a cozy little apartment
Modest by most standards but blessed nonetheless
I have a job
I pay my bills
And I don’t have to beg for my next meal

That woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark
She begs every day for a morsel of food…
to stay alive!
For what?
To sleep in some alley on a cold rainy night
And wake up the next morning to beg again…
just to survive!
What kind of life is that, and what keeps her going?
What unimaginable strength she must have inside
To carry on each day and into the night
Does despair ever win?
Does hope ever die?
Is hope even within her scope of thinking?

I feel so helpless
What can I do?
I spent most of my life detached somehow
I didn’t even notice
That woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark
She was there
But I was not
I turned away and pretended she didn’t exist
Now that I see, what is my part?
How do I make a difference
To that woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark?

I lift my head to look at her
I nod, I smile, I say hello
I acknowledge her existence
At least it’s a start

That is my part
To pay attention
Don’t turn away and pretend she doesn’t exist
Understanding her pain, her struggle to survive
May give me the courage to take the next step
More than a look, a nod, or a smile
Will stir her heart and lighten her sorrow

Maybe next time I’ll be able to say
What is your name?
May I help you somehow to carry your load?
Come in out of the rain and allow me to take your coat
Dear woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark

Seeing God in her, I gain respect
This child of God has met many challenges
that I couldn’t even imagine
Who am I to judge and look the other way?
Compassion moves me to share my light
And do what I can to make her life just a little bit brighter
To carry her through the night
and give her strength to face the next day

To me
With my comfortable life, it doesn’t seem like much
But to her
It may be the very thing
that makes her feel her life is worth living
Not only that…
When I do my part
It makes Love real
For that woman…
Walking down the street alone after dark
And that’s all that really matters

05/22/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Compassion
Compassion lives in the night and day
Compassion is Love's best way
Compassion brings together great and small
Compassion is the light which unites us all.

Compassion is the highest expression of human love, and a keynote of our spiritual evolution. As Compassion flows from our hearts, Balance is gained, and Harmony among opposites is achieved. Compassion, Balance and Harmony create Freedom and Liberation, and from this place and space, Compassion unites us all.
~ Author Unknown

Prayer of Compassion from Mother Teresa
Lord, open our eyes
that we may see You in our brothers and sisters.
Lord, open our ears
that we may hear the cries of the hungry,
the cold, the frightened, the oppressed.
Lord, open our hearts
that we may Love each other as You Love us.
Renew in us Your spirit.
Lord, free us and make us one.
Amen

Artist Heidi Hansen, formerly homeless, painted this artistic representation of hope after homelessness. The original painting bears her dedication “When we reach our darkest moments, we can choose to act out our despair, or do something extraordinary.” This piece was one of 28 of her paintings which she donated to be sold at an art auction to benefit a homeless shelter and to raise awareness of homelessness in Vancouver, Washington. Hansen is a survivor of domestic violence and mental illness who received services from Open House Ministries and Share, Inc.

The Endless Grip of Longing

2011-05-14T17:10:00.000-07:00

Deep longing
Unfulfilled

Never goes away
It remains in the heart
Perhaps held at bay
Only to surface
On another dark day
The journey to wholeness
May seem endless
When you’re feeling hopeless
Lost and forgotten
Your dreams have escaped you
What now is your purpose?

Deep longing
Unfulfilled

Be gentle with yourself
When in its grip
Be kind
Take your time
And try to understand
This pain will guide you
To a new place and time
Where a light is hiding
Waiting to be found
It was placed in you at your birth
It is the expression
Of your beauty
Your gift
Your true worth

Deep longing
Unfulfilled

Grief and sorrow over what is lost
Must be honored first
Whatever the cost
The tide of emotions
Inevitable pain
Creates a void
Leaves a space
For something else
To take its place
Trust that the answers will come
Filling that space
That hole in your soul
Your Godself awaits
Joy and passion
Will find expression
Igniting the light
That’s been hiding within

Deep longing
Unfulfilled

Always remember
The emptiness inside
Make a vow right now
To never forget
Not to dwell
Or stay in the darkness
But to find compassion
And share your light
When others are held
In its endless grip

Deep longing
Unfulfilled

Comes full circle
Its purpose revealed
When Love is shared
Given away
This Gift of self
Dims the pain
Glowing heartspace
Returns to you
Sustained by Love’s everlasting embrace
Its promise yields

Deep longing...
Fulfilled

07/11/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

"One thing I've learned, as a good friend once told me, 'God doesn't waste a hurt.' I don't believe God causes hurtful things to happen to us; in fact, I believe He's right there with us in our darkest hour crying as deeply as we are over our pain and suffering. I do believe God provides opportunities for us to find and receive His Love in the midst of our deepest sorrow. And He also brings us to healing solutions and discovering ways we can use our experience to help others." ~ C. Burgess

Love Is the Answer

2011-05-07T17:14:00.000-07:00

When all the world
Seems filled with gloom
It’s soul consumed
With tragedy and disaster
Remember…
Love is the answer

When hate fills the space
Where love was once commonplace
When words sting
Instead of sing
Remember…
Love is the answer

When others don’t understand
Why you’ve taken My hand
Your new light reveals
Their darkness concealed
Remember…
Love is the answer

When your patience is tested
You feel not at your best
When life doesn't seem fair
Just breathe and say a prayer
And remember...
Love is the answer

When hard times descend
Upon foe or friend
When eyes that once sparkled and shined
Become blind
Remember…
Love is the answer

When land and sea
Send out a plea
Mother Earth cries out
Destruction all about
Remember…
Love is the answer

When the children are forlorn
Their little souls tattered and torn
Abused, neglected
Hopeless and dejected
Remember…
Love is the answer

For only Love can turn darkness to light
Blindness to sight
Giving hope to the hopeless
A friend to the friendless
New vision and a dream
Can be all that they seem
When we remember
That Love is the answer

04/03/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

This poem appeared in the May, 2011 issue
of Dot to Dot online magazine
published by
Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait
which is available at the following link:

http://www.mjtpmagazine.presspublisher.us/

Pathways to Peace

2011-05-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Peace begins in the heart of each individual. When you center yourself in divine love and focus your thoughts on peace, you create a sacred place within your heart, dedicated to experiencing and expressing the love of God. As you then begin to let divine love radiate out from you to those around you, you take the first step in generating peace in your life and in all circumstances. When you extend your thoughts of love and peace to others, you create an atmosphere of peace that embraces and unites every heart.

Be a Peacemaker

Think of the great peacemakers throughout history, including Michael Jackson. How are they able to inspire people to follow a path of peace? How has Michael inspired us to be here today on this mission of spreading love and peace to others in his name?

The answer lies within—the great peacemakers of the world remain centered by turning within to “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Phil. 4:7). The world responds to their inner glow of peace. You may create your own glow by thinking peaceful thoughts, speaking words you'd like to hear, and treating everyone with kindness and compassion, just as Michael always did.

Have you ever noticed the ripple effect created just by smiling at someone? Try this experiment. Smile at people and see how many smiles you receive in return. You'll be amazed at how far kindness can travel in just a short amount of time. Your inner peace is reaching out to others and the ripples of love and understanding are spreading outward in a never-ending circle.

Now visualize the peace of God encircling Michael’s family, extending out to all those who were closely involved in Michael’s life, and beyond that to all of his fans around the world. You are a part of that peace because you're on a spiritual journey—a pathway that includes peace in your day-to-day living. Just as with any journey, you can pack for the trip. Carry with you an attitude of peace, enfold yourself in God's love, and always, always have generous amounts of concern and caring ready to share with others.

When you pray, remember to enfold everyone in your faith-filled thoughts. Even those who may evoke anger and resentment - especially those. Envision each person divinely guided in finding the way to live with integrity in love and peace and truth with others. Although distance may separate you from these people, prayer bridges the gap toward unity and harmonious relationships. To love in God's way is to let it flow freely, not withholding it from anyone.

Make a covenant right now to dedicate your prayers and your thoughts to the fulfillment of love and peace in all you do.

05/02/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Click on the link below to view a guided meditation video, "Song of Peace":
http://www.unity.org/prayer/guidedMeditations/songOfPeace.html

"We are peacemakers, one in the love of God.
With hearts united, we establish harmony and peace in our lives and in the world."

The Greatest Mystery of All

2011-04-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Photo art created by Billie Jean
Used with permission - Thank you BJ!

* * * * * * *
Our private rendezvous is coming to an end
Remembering our time together
Every moment precious
Time has been our friend
These sweet memories will stay
Keeping me alive 'til one bright day

I came to find answers
to questions that are haunting
Where do I go from here?
What more does life have in store for me?
How may I use my gifts to your glory?
Tell me, how shall I continue this journey?

Even as I prepare to leave
Returning to my life
of aching arms and broken dreams
I still don’t know what the future holds
Except that I’ll be getting old!
The answers don't always seem so clear
Tell me now, so I can hear you

This life is such a mystery
Profound and deep when you hold the key
But it’s much more simple than you expect
Just keep your head up and do your best
What else can I say beyond all that?
But Love is the key that keeps you on track
And therein lies the greatest mystery of all
How can something with no shape or form
hold you upright and not let you fall?

It’s in your spirit, your very soul
The energy that makes you whole
You don’t even need your physical form
Except to take action and get the job done
Make your presence known
On this earth, in this time
And do all you can to set things straight
Make it all rhyme

You don’t even need to steer this ride
'Cause God is at the helm
Just trust... and He will guide
He is the Maestro, the Conductor of Souls
He’s the only One who really knows you…
Because He made you

Look around you, see what He’s done
It’s all as it should be, in perfect order
This masterpiece of creation
Why do you question the Maestro’s word?
Why do you doubt the ultimate power?
Just accept His love
He wants you to have it
And be about living in the light
‘til it becomes a habit!

The answer you've been seeking
lies within, if you understand it
The greatest mystery of all
isn't really a mystery
It is Love, pure and simple
Give it away...
then you will have it!

And all the rest will fall into place...

01/02/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Creation's Plea

2011-04-17T00:30:00.000-07:00

Spring is here
Showing its color
Peeking out from under
Winter’s blanket, soft and warm
The sun brings forth new life in every form

Snow is melting, setting free
Lifeblood of the earth
Waters flow to the sea
The circle of life continues its journey

The wind blows gently
God’s breath, Holy Spirit
Gives life so freely
Whispers of love, you can hear it

All things of the earth
Living, breathing, sacred worth
Their song must be heard
It’s our choice to preserve
This gift from the heavens, so lovely a jewel
God granted this planet, our home for awhile

Treasures upon it for our enjoyment
Survival, recreation, even employment
It sustains our lives, gives food to nourish
Sweet music to listen, and beauty to flourish

We must cherish the value of this great gift
Entrusted to our care
Our home together with all things living
It asks that we learn to share

Survival of the fittest was part of the plan
But killing with malice and raping the land
Was not the intent
We’ve lost respect
Man’s power abused
God is not amused

Creation cries out, her music speaks
Her tone, her rhythm, her very heartbeat
Listen, you can hear the plea
Of nature’s call to you and me

The undertones of pain and suffering
Heard across the planet
Creation groans, asks for an offering
Of peace and good will, our commitment to save it!

03/27/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

True Friends Together Again

2011-03-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

Mike's friend Elizabeth...that beautiful lady who was like a warm cuddly blanket to him. They are together again in heavenly bliss! I believe they were true soulmates and no doubt, eternal friends. Since June 25, 2009, I have often thought about the day of her re-birth and what a joyous celebration it would be for them to be reunited in spirit! She was by far the best friend Michael ever had and she was his most loyal advocate. She knew him better than anybody and never hesitated to speak up on his behalf. God knew he needed a friend like her. I am so happy for him that he has her by his side again - imagine the work they can do and the fun they will have together! Two beautiful free spirits! I am only sad for us that we will no longer have her here to speak her mind. She was a bold, beautiful, no-nonsense kind of woman. I love that about her! Yes, she will be missed...

I just need to say
While I’m standing here in front of you
Thank you for the joy
And the tears

I am a part of you
And you a part of me
You can see right through
To everything in me there is to see

You know me inside and out
You’ve heard me cry
You’ve heard me shout
And you’ve seen me smile
At what you are about

I just wanna thank you
For being my friend
For staying with me
Through thick and through thin

Such loyalty and trust
Can never be replaced
So, forgive me if I make a fuss
My friend…
But you’ve touched me with your grace

12/31/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

In loving memory of Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor
"Dame Elizabeth"
February 27, 1932 - March 23, 2011

A Legend and a true Lover of Life
And the best friend Micheal Jackson ever had!

Through the Long Dark Nights

2011-03-20T05:31:00.000-07:00

Before the earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck Japan a little over a week ago, I had plans for my next blog post and it was in the process of coming together. I had gathered bits and pieces of things I had already written on the subject, including a poem, and all I had to do was wrap my brain around how I was going to present it and start typing. Simple enough, right?

Then on March 11, news of the earthquake in Japan came to my attention, and as more and more information became known and more and more images were seen on the internet, I found myself to be suddenly mute. I was struggling to find words. I couldn't even make a simple comment in response to friends' posts on facebook or messages via email. I tried, but... nothing! I kept thinking about the children... and Michael - how absolutely heartsick he must be to see these beautiful children in a country he loved so very much dealing with such horrible devastation! This was weighing so heavily on my heart, that everything else seemed empty and pointless compared to the thought of these little ones living the darkest days of their lives.

I had a very strong feeling that Michael would be there, doing his Angel thing - whatever he could do to save some and comfort others. And while life carried on as usual all around me, I felt somewhat detached as if I was circling overhead, watching what was going on below, not quite sure where to land or where my presence would be the most help or to whom. I donated what I could financially to the relief efforts, and I just kept praying... for the children and their families... for the rescue workers... for Michael.

A week later, I knew I wasn't going to write what I had originally intended to write, but I needed to write or do something... anything... to recognize what was going on over there. I couldn't sit here in my comfortable home with my comfortable life and act as if it wasn't happening! I could feel their pain, their fear, their sorrow and their confusion. I finally broke down and shared with a friend how I was feeling... then the words started to come.

For the children of Japan... and for Michael...

Oh children, my children
Have no fear
I hear your cries
I feel your pain
And I am here

Oh children, my children
My heart weeps with you
Through your deepest despair
I will be there
Take my hand
I will lead you to safety
Don’t give up the fight
I will hold you and comfort you
Through the long dark nights

How do you tell a child
"Do not fear"
When their world is shattered
into a million pieces
When mud floods their playground
And splinters are all that remain
of their home, their space
Where loved ones once dwelt
In their warm and safe place

How do you tell a child
"Don’t despair"
When they don’t even know
if their mommy or daddy
can be found anywhere
If their brother or sister
are buried in the mud
When time stands still
and they wonder,
Is this God’s will?

How do you tell a child
"It’s going to be alright"
When their world has fallen down
all around them
When destruction and mayhem
are all they can see for miles and miles
Day after day
And night after night

How do you tell a child
"Go to sleep now
Try not to worry
God loves you, you know"
When all they can think of is,
How did this happen?
What will become of my life?
Who will take care of me
and tuck me into bed at night?

How do you say
"Hang on little one
The sun will shine again
I promise you will see
another bright day"
When the days are unbearable
too painful to stay
And the long dark nights
only remind them
that nothing will ever be the same

They'll know you are there
when you take their hands
and lead them to safety
And you caress their little heads
ever so gently
to show them you care
Your healing touch
will get them through
their darkest despair

Someday they’ll look back
and remember
The One who touched them
with love and tenderness
You gave them strength to get through
You gave them hope anew
Sharing your light
You gave comfort and courage
through the long dark nights

They’ll remember…
And be blessed

03/18/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Michael's Gift

2011-03-05T11:11:00.000-08:00

Thank you, dear Michael
For sharing your magic
Your wonderment of all things sacred
The moon and the stars
The mysteries of the universe
Your appreciation for beauty and innocence
And your childlike awe at the miracles of nature
As if you were seeing it all for the very first time

Thank you, dear Michael
For inviting me to be a child again
To experience the reverence forgotten
To hold a caterpillar in the palm of my hand
And giggle at the way it tickles
To imagine what lies beyond the stars
And to know that anything is possible wherever you are

Thank you, dear Michael
For the gift of your light and your love
Your heart and your soul
Have become a part of me
Thank you for helping me to feel again
For bringing me back to my heartspace
Reminding me that all that really matters in life
Comes from the heavens above
That music is the only true language of love
And all of creation sings her song

Thank you, dear Michael
For sharing your enchantment
For making it possible to dream
To believe in magic and moonbeams
And to know what you know…
That everything is exactly as it was created to be
And all we need do is open our hearts
To see with new vision what is already there

Thank you, dear Michael
For your message to a world in sorrow
An evening’s sunset
A colorful rainbow
Or a shooting star
To remind us that you are always here
And even from afar
You are guiding us toward a better tomorrow

12/30/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Give Me Your Wings So We Can Fly!

2011-02-23T04:56:00.000-08:00

Occasionally one of Michael's songs which I have listened to faithfully over the last year and a half will suddenly take on a new meaning for me as the lyrics resonate with something deep in my soul - something that decides it is time to come into the light and make itself known. Lately, I've been listening to the album "Michael" almost exlusively since it came out in December. I can't seem to get enough of it! The more I listen to it, the more I want to hear it all over again. As with all of Michael's music, there just seems to be something about it that you want to absorb into every cell of your being. The very essence of him - his message, his love for us and his concern for humanity - is present in every single song! The lyrics, the beat, the melody, and of course, his amazing voice in its every unique expression pulls you in and holds you there. I love to sing along too, so each time I hear a song I pick up a few more lyrics that I'm able to recite along with him, until I know it well enough to belt it out confidently, sometimes singing harmony and other times the melody depending on the range of the parts. (Michael can reach notes much higher than I can!) It is only when I have learned the entire song that I can truly enjoy the experience of being his vocal partner in a duet made just for Michael and me! :)
But I digress...

In recent weeks, I've been particularly drawn to "Keep Your Head Up" and "Best of Joy." From the comments published in the CD cover, we know that Best of Joy is a song Michael wrote for all of us. And, of all the songs on the album, it is the one that was written and recorded most recently - in early 2009. It warms my heart every time I hear him sing "I am the moonlight, You are the spring, Our love's a sacred thing, You know I always will love you...

I am forever, We are forever!" God bless him! It's almost as if he knew we were going to need to hear those words after he was gone. In fact, many of his songs are like that - even those from decades past. There's just something about much of his music over the years that feels as if it was created in preparation for this time, you know? Inviting us into a love relationship with him that would last forever, and inviting us to join him in his mission to heal the world.

"Keep Your Head Up" also feels like such a song. To me, it's not just about a single mother struggling to live day-to-day or paycheck-to-paycheck. The message is directed at any one of us who may feel uncertain, overwhelmed, lost or hopeless at any time in our lives, but especially on this journey with Michael. It's a message from him to give us strength to keep going when we may feel like giving up; because he knew the challenges we would face in attempting to make a change in this world, and he wanted to give us something to lift our spirits and bring us hope, encouraging us not to give up. He briefly mentions the plight of the planet and adds "It's never too late - just lean on me... Keep your head up, Don't give up today." And his final plea to all of us "I need your love, I need you now, I need your light right here today, I need you now!" while the chorus is singing about the sun shining it's light on us today, tells me he is urgently pleading with us to stay strong and to let our lights shine in the world... NOW! Had Michael been able to finish this song himself, I believe this is where his voice would have increased in intensity to reflect the urgency of the message. As it stands, the words speak for themselves and deliver the message just as powerfully: He needs us to be present and actively doing something... anything to make a contribution toward healing this planet.

The chorus of this anthem gives us a clue as to how we are to accomplish this:

Keepin' your head up to the sky
Keepin' your mind up stay alive
Give me your wings so we can fly

Keepin' your head up to the sky
We can just rise up, tell me now
Give me your wings so we can fly

Looking up to the sky has become a daily habit of mine. I do it every chance I get. I have found many treasures there and I always feel a strong connection to Michael when I do. The moon and the stars, cloud formations, sunbeams, rainbows, sunsets and sunrises, birds in flight... these things all carry a message or a special meaning that only a true Michael lover would understand. Michael himself found much inspiration in looking to the sky while considering all the possibilities in the universe that lie within our vision... and beyond. He was spiritually in tune with all of it. It nourished him and kept his creativity fresh and divinely dazzling. I, too, have felt this sense of connection and nourishment and have written several poems inspired by the things I've witnessed there. To me, the sky is God's canvas to paint as He chooses with colors and images of things and concepts that many an artist, writer and poet have found fascinating - whether for pure and simple enjoyment of the beauty of it or to possibly relay a message hidden in the context of the art. Metaphors abound if one is open to recognize them, and one can easily be caught in the spell of love, power, light, majesty, and awe-inspired story as told by the Creator of Heaven and Earth. It's where magic lives. I really believe Michael exists there. It's only natural, considering everything we know about him and his soul. He was and is, above everything else, an artist to his very core - a creative genius unlike any other we've ever known. His own unique expression through his art will never be duplicated, and the lengths to which he explored and was willing to go in order to take us on his adventure were unlimited!

In the verses of the chorus above, he encourages us to keep our heads up to the sky (where we will find our strength and inspiration.) And when he sings "Give me your wings so WE can fly"... he means just that. He needs our help to continue his work in the world ("I can't do it by myself... gonna take somebody's help"), and he's given us all the tools we need in his music. He holds us up with his words and his love, but he does not enable us to depend on him. He wants us to shine our own light in the world, because he knows we all have that capability. He lifts us up to help us find our own light, spread our own wings and tap into our own power to fly, and he will be flying right there with us. His message is that together, with our combined light and love, we can accomplish great things!

I'm the kind of person who has always been most comfortable hanging out in the background. Being a cog that helps the machine function effortlessly is what I do best. Taking care of logistics, details, paperwork, and anything else that needs doing in order to make a project run smoothly has been my job... in my career and in my personal life. Although my high school counselor said I was a leader among my peers, I didn't see myself that way. And, until recently, I didn't see myself as the creative type either. Oh, I had creative skills and ideas which I never hesitated to share with those who were 'in charge.' I didn't think twice about allowing them to take full credit for my ideas. To me, it was safer that way because if the idea failed, it would be on their shoulders, not mine! Nice cop-out, eh? I had an unreasonable fear of criticism, and I would be terribly embarrassed to be caught in the spotlight, even if I were to be caught doing something remarkable. But mostly I feared making a mistake for all to see because I'm a perfectionist (much like Michael) and any little error made in front of others would surely send me running to the hills to hide out in shame for the rest of my life! (I told you my fear was unreasonable.) So..... for most of my life, I played it safe. And because of this, I haven't accomplished nearly as much as I probably could have out of sheer terror of getting it wrong. Nor have I been able to reach outside of myself to help others for the same reason. This is where being a perfectionist pulled me down, unlike Michael whose perfectionism allowed him to soar to extraordinary heights and shine his light far beyond anything we could ever imagine. He is a beacon of brilliant light to all of us who have experienced pain and hardship in our lives and have allowed it to hold us back. By his example of courage and perseverance, and with his unconditional love for each of us, he has inspired us to spread our wings and fly... to let our lights shine before others!

Not long after this journey with Michael began, I had a dream that Michael came to the place where I work and was going to put on a concert there. Before the concert started, I was busily working in the background doing what I do best, making sure all the necessary things were in place so that everything would run smoothly. I remember distinctly the moment Michael arrived and he began warming up on stage. I stopped what I was doing long enough to watch this musical genius at work from across the room. Even in my dream he had a presence about him that was indescribable - I could feel it - and right now as I'm typing this, I am in tears remembering what it felt like to be in the same room with him. I was in awe!! And I stayed just far enough away and slightly out of sight so he wouldn't see me watching (or so I thought.) I would have been horribly embarrassed if he'd even looked my way! Soon, I busied myself again with my work and I didn't notice when he came up behind me and tapped me on the shoulder. I knew it was him before I even turned around. I caught my breath and held it there for a moment (very much like the breath Michael took in "The Way You Make Me Feel" video when he first saw the beautiful girl - I love that moment!) I summoned all my courage, composed myself and turned around to face him. He was stunning! Right there in front of me! And my knees felt like they were going to buckle under at any moment. But I remained surprisingly calm and waited for him to talk first. He then invited me to come up front with him. He asked me to introduce him when the concert started and he wanted me to join him in singing the opening song! I was flabbergasted by his request, wondering how he even knew that I could sing, and all I could say was... "What about my job? I have work to do." And he said, "Give it to her", pointing to a woman across the room who looked a little lost, as if she was wanting something to do. "She needs something to do and she can handle it just fine." So, I said "Alright, as long as you don't make me dance!" and, after giving the woman a few instructions, I joined Michael on stage. I woke up about this time in the dream. I don't remember doing the introduction or singing with him, but that wasn't the point. The point of this dream, for me, was that he was inviting me to share my light up front for all to see. He seemed to see something in me that I didn't see in myself, and simply because he noticed, he gave me permission to shine... without fear... to spread my wings and fly!!! And the fact that he knew I could do this without even knowing me, gave me the courage to do it. He took me out of my comfortable place of hiding in the background where it was safe and he lifted me to a place of prominence where my gifts could be shared with others, bringing joy and inspiration just as he has done his entire life. This dream represents everything he has done for me since he cracked my heart wide open in the summer of 2009.

Now, all this talk about shining and flying brings me to the reason I started writing this piece to begin with! After contemplating the lyrics to these two beautiful and very meaningful songs, "Best of Joy" and "Keep Your Head Up", I knew it was time for me to share a couple of poems I'd written in the last year about flying. The first one "If I Could Fly" reminds me of "Best of Joy" simply because it's a joyful and playful piece. One that reflects a feeling of pure joy and abandon at imagining what it would feel like to be able to fly. I wrote it in July of 2010 when I was on one of my ocean retreats as I watched the seagulls playing in the air currents on a very windy day at the beach. I used to have dreams about flying and, to this day, I still remember what it felt like to soar above the earth. It was incredible! Somewhere along the path of my life, I stopped having those dreams, and this poem was, in a sense, a re-capturing of that feeling of being able to soar and command the air in flight.

Photo taken by C. Burgess at Brookings Harbor, Oregon coast

If I Could Fly

If I could fly
Like a seagull flies
Dipping and swooping
Playing with the wind

Surfing
On a wave of air
With total abandon
Never a care

Perched atop a rock at sea
I would plan my strategy

Which way to go
To get the best lift
Make the wind carry me to the sky
Then swoop to the ground
Like falling off a cliff

Gliding with precision
So close to the ground
Like an airplane
Coming in for a landing

A roller coaster ride
On a windy day
It’s by far the best time to play

Going with the flow
I’d swing and sway
Let the wind have its way
Like a kite with no strings

This must be
What it feels like
To be totally and utterly free!

07/05/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

The second poem "Just Do It!" reminds me more of "Keep Your Head Up" in that it's about taking a leap of faith - without thinking about it too much - just taking off and flying, allowing myself to soar to the heights God intended. I wrote this poem at my ocean retreat in December 2010. I was eating breakfast at the resort where I was staying, watching the seagulls take off from their perch on the rooftop of a nearby building. I had been feeling somewhat "stuck" in recent weeks leading up to this retreat and I was looking to find some answers and fresh inspiration to move forward on this journey. Watching these seagulls take off without a thought, simply because it was natural to them, is what inspired this piece.

Just Do It!

Up high, so high
I can’t even see the sky
‘Cause I’m in it!
There is no limit to what I can do
If I believe…
Just do it!

Impossible, you say?
I don’t think so
There is always a way
Turned on by the power of love
I can do anything
Once I choose to move
Into the groove

Thanks to you, dear one
Your love lights up the sky
Even on a cloudy day
I don’t need to ask why

Birds in flight
Show me how it’s done
They just take off
Without a thought!
It’s natural to them, you see
God gave them wings
To fly above me

To me he gave a spirit to fly
Above the clouds
So high in the sky
So I could see the world below
Its beauty and pain
So I would know

My heart and soul say
Step aside, make some room
For love to enter the atmosphere
No more doom and gloom!

Up high, so high
I can’t even see the sky
‘Cause I’m in it!
There is no limit to what I can do
If I believe…
Just do it!

12/31/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

My hope and prayer is that we will ALL continue to experience Michael's "Best of Joy" on this journey, being the very best that we can be for God, for Michael and for ourselves - and also sharing our light right here today and spreading our wings so WE can fly together with him! If we continue to do this... I mean really DO this, not just talk about it... we will achieve his ultimate dream, heading toward that bliss which Michael has written so much about, doing our part to make this world a better place... for God... for Michael... and for the children.

Someone to Hold

2011-02-14T02:55:00.000-08:00

Truth be told
I long for someone to hold when the day is through
God has led me to you
I speak softly your name
Sweet and smooth on my lips
Will you remain?
The wind whispers…yes!
Come drink from the well of my love, my bliss

A gift from the heavens, bright star to call my own
God’s grace and forgiveness leading me home
Riches beyond measure are found in thee
Your soul is the treasure offered to me

The colors of your love
Like a rainbow rich and true
Invite me into your open arms
To forever be with you

With courage to be vulnerable once again
Trusting in you, I place my heart in your hands
Please handle with care
Gently and tenderly leading me where
The promise is captured
Heaven’s reward… oh, sweet rapture!

A love for all time flows like a stream
Over and under, around my being
Embracing my soul, washing away
The heartache and pain
With joy leading the way

You are my someone to hold while dreaming at night
You comfort, cajole, relieve my fright
Cooing like a dove
I’m safe and secure in the arms of love
And when I awake, you whisper at dawn
Gentle as a fawn

O Gift Divine
Your light a stunning reflection
Beautiful as the moon
Resplendent as the sun
God lets me know you are The One

A thousand years and more
I am you and you are me
Seems we’ve been here before
That it was always meant to be

My sweet bird, my soul
You speak the language of we
I am ready to go, my love
Wherever you lead me

In your arms I’ve dreamed an eternity away
Lived a lifetime I’ll never forget
You’ve always been there it seems
With a love that’s here to stay

You captured my heart, offered yours for free
That’s why I’m in this for all time, don’t you see?
You’ve gained my trust, taught me to be bold
Therefore I must be
Your someone to hold
For evermore, my love is yours
…Eternally!

04/01/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Innocent!

2011-02-04T23:11:00.000-08:00

It was brought to my attention on January 31 this year that this was the date in 2005 when Michael stood before a judge and plead 'not guilty' to unthinkable charges which were brought against him by a money hungry family and a greedy politician. I couldn't get the imagined picture of him standing in that courtroom proclaiming his innocence out of my mind. Other images of his famous walks to and from the courthouse in Santa Maria, California, during the 5 month trial that followed his official plea flooded my thoughts as well. And I couldn't help thinking about all the events leading up to that time as well as the events that followed the jury's verdict of "Not Guilty" 14 times on June 13, 2005. This date will stand out in history as the day Michael Jackson was declared innocent of child molestation; but even though he was exonerated, the truth is, his life would never be the same after that. And we continued to hear slanderous remarks and innuendoes regurgitated by the media and the public from those who just couldn't seem to believe in his innocence. It's an unfortunate and an unjustified misconception we are still dealing with today.

This is not the first time I have thought of these things, nor is it the first time I have cried many tears over the injustice of this insane situation and how it crushed Michael's soul! But this is the first time I found the words to express all that was occupying my heart and mind when these images - these memories - came flooding back all at once.

This remarkable journey I've been on with Michael since June 25, 2009, has led me through some extreme highs and lows along the way, learning new things at every turn about this innocent and generous man we all love so very much. I just keep loving him more and more as time goes on and I want him to know how much of a difference he has made in my life. I want him to know that everything he gave us...all he sacrificed...all he endured was somehow not in vain. The impact he has made on my life and the lives of so many around the world is a powerful testimony to the effectiveness of his life's work and the mission he was here to accomplish! I bow before him in humble gratitude for the precious gifts he shared with us at such a high cost! And I thank God every day for the gift of Michael in this world!

His message was love, pure and simple... we got it!... And we're not letting it go!

Innocent!

An innocent man went to trial today
Accused of things he couldn't even say
Seventy officers invaded his home
Ransacked and pillaged through everything he owned

The paradise he'd created
Lost its soul that day
And Neverland lost its Peter Pan
Because they couldn't accept
He was an innocent man

Handcuffed, paraded before all of humanity
Viscious tongues lashed out in glee, "He's Guilty!"
The lynching began before the trial even started
This innocent man was hate's favorite target
Thirsty for blood, they couldn't wait
For him to meet his presumed fate

Humble and proud, he stood before the judge
"I'm not guilty, your honor
And I want you to know I won't hold a grudge
I forgive them, you see
For they know not what they do
I'll face the jury
Then the world will know the truth"

His innocent nature was not an act
Some found it hard to believe
'Cause the truth is, as a matter of fact
On stage he was a 'beast'
A sensitive man to the very core
An artist, a genius, a master of his craft
We'd never seen anything... or anyone
Quite like him before

His love of children
Was the whole of his existence
Without them, you see, he wouldn't want to be
The children of the world were his reason for living
They knew his true soul
His innocence they could see

A healer of the sick
And a lover of all things pure
He believed in magic, this innocent man
And he only wanted to share it
With everyone throughout the land
Bringing joy and escapism
To this hurting world
He gave us all he had to give
His love, energy and light
Put our spirits in a whirl
Growing wings to fly
Like Peter Pan
Above the clouds so high

A child at heart
God's innocent delight
He inspired us all to be child-like
To love as a child loves
And to remember their plight

But the media vultures
And their pandering public
Didn't understand
The purity of his soul
They really believed
He was capable of hurting
The very thing
That made him feel whole

They judged and ridiculed
Laughed and pointed
Chewed him up and spit him out
They were ugly and mean
They just didn't understand
What this innocent man
Was really all about

The trial was a farce
It should never have been
And ultimately
They couldn't convict
This innocent man

But they took his soul
In two thousand and five
And even though
He came back to show us
He was ever alive
This innocent man
Would leave us again
When the doctor contrived
To let him die
In the year two thousand and nine

Although his body is gone from this earth
His spirit lives on
A new day, a new birth!
His love penetrates
The hearts of those who believe
'Cause he planted the seed
In you and in me

The gifts God gave him for us to see
How to live and love and just how to be
Have inspired us to be the very best that we can be
He gave us insight to heal this planet
So, we're workin' day and night to put some love back in it

'Cause this innocent man
Gave his all to humanity
To heal the world
For the children, you see
The very thing
He was accused of hurting

So, no matter what they say
No matter what they do
They can't take away his innocence
We'll see to it they never forget
If it's the last thing we ever do!

01/31/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

The following video is provided courtesy of:
Valmai Owens, Dir. of Publications at MJTP.
Thank you Valmai!

The Circle of Life

2011-01-26T22:59:00.000-08:00

Those of us who know
We who see
We understand
We’re right where we’re supposed to be

In the light of day
In the sun’s brilliant rays
And in the moon’s glow
We just know what we know

The truth, it is written in the air
We can see it, we can feel it
No longer a mystery
It’s been already there

Our vision has changed
You see, rearranged
By the One who reflects
All our wishes and dreams

Now we see things we’ve never seen before
‘Cause that child came along and opened the door
To our sheltered places
Our comfortable spaces
Shadows danced across the floor
And for the first time we could see their faces

He shined his light in the dark
And showed us the way
He said, now you will know
What I’ve already known
And you won’t need to ask
It’s been already said

Your vision has changed
You see, rearranged
By the One who reflects
All your wishes and dreams

When you look to the moon
On this cold winter’s night
You already know, my love is in its light
A precious gift will soon be revealed
In the glow that surrounds the moon this night

Trust what you see, trust what you feel
You know what’s right
Your hopes and your dreams
They are already there in the circle of life

Take care not to fear
Take care not to doubt
Take care not to question
What this is about

You already know
What you know in your heart
My light has shown you
The way through the dark

Now you see things you’ve never seen before
‘Cause that child came along and opened the door

Your vision has changed
It's been rearranged
By the One who reflects
All your wishes and dreams

Trust what you see, trust what you feel
In the glow that surrounds the moon this night
You need only believe
You know what’s right
Your hopes and your dreams
They are already there in the circle of life

01/l8/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

Circle of Life - The Poem: How it came to be...

This poem came to be after I had received the wonderful news last week that my daughter and son-in-law are expecting their 4th child! This news by itself would be evidence of the wonderful miracle of life and God’s gift to us; however, there’s more to this story than first meets the eye. You see, their 3rd child, Asher, didn’t make it to full term. For unknown reasons, he died mid-pregnancy and his two older brothers, Aidyn and Avery, would never have the privilege of playing with their little brother whom they were so excited to meet. As with my first two grandsons, I was with my daughter, Kendra and her husband, Matyas, at the hospital on October 1, 2009, for the delivery of our little doll, Asher. We knew he was not alive, so it was a very emotionally intense experience for all of us, but especially Kendra. As she brought forth this precious little being that her body had so lovingly caressed for 4½ months, but who was not to be in this world, she also lost Hope. I saw the light go out in her soul and, as her mother, I felt so helpless to do anything for her. I couldn’t take her pain away. It’s not the same as kissing a 'boo-boo' and making it all better as you do for them when they are young. This was a deep, deep pain that she had to work through herself to come to terms with her grief and anger over this unexplainable loss. I lent my love and support and faith in whatever ways I could in the weeks and months that followed; but, as any mother of a grown child knows, you have to allow them space and time to work things out for themselves - to find their own answers and their own peace in their own time. They may not realize it at the time, but it’s how we love them.

Kendra and Matyas were undecided for some time after October of 2009 as to whether they would try for another child. There was even a period of time when it looked as if it wasn't going to happen. For a while Kendra's grief was intensified by not only the loss of little Asher, but the loss of the possibility of another child. Well, as you know, there IS another child on the way! On the evening of January 17, Kendra shared the good news with me when I was at their house for a visit. I was thrilled, of course, but also filled with concern for her and how she was handling this emotionally. She and I talked for a long time that night about worry, doubt and fear and all I could say to her was "God knows what He's doing... please trust in that!" I was afraid to say "everything's going to be fine" because I really didn't know that, and I didn't want to assure her of something that was yet uncertain. I have no way of predicting the outcome any more than she does, but what I can do is share my faith with her...so I did.

A little later when I left to go home, I stepped outside and, looking up as I always do to find our little moonwalker, I noticed the nearly full moon shining brilliantly through a porthole in the sky. There was a HUGE ring of dense fog around the moon, larger than any I had ever seen. Inside the ring the sky was so clear and bright, I could see all the stars surrounding the moon. It was as if the moon had burned off the fog to create this porthole so I could see it...just for that moment (it was gone by the time I got home.) The sky outside the ring was foggy so the only clear spot was inside the ring and the whole picture looked 3-dimentional! I was mesmerized by this beautiful scene and I stood there for several minutes just absorbing its magic. The first thing that came to mind as I was looking at this miracle of nature was "Circle of Life"... it was HUGE and it was complete, the full circle representing eternity and the ongoing reproduction of life. When I realized what that meant, I started to cry and, looking at the circle again it felt like a big hug...something I'd been asking for in my prayers lately. It was wrapping its arms around me and making me feel warm and secure on this cold winter's night. A beautiful gift of love - like everything was coming full circle and I knew it was going to be alright!

I drove home feeling as if I wanted to call Kendra immediately and tell her of this experience and the powerful sense of assurance I had received. But there was a nagging feeling of concern too that was hanging over me at the same time. I didn't want to give her a false sense of security, because I knew that I still didn't have concrete answers...just a feeling. I also realized that "everything's going to be alright" could mean a variety of things and didn't necessarily guarantee a healthy, full-term baby of the desired gender! I decided to sleep on it and see how I felt in the morning.

When I arrived home I noticed the ring around the moon was gone, so I went inside and spent some time on my computer checking messages and reading over a couple of my blog posts from around Christmas time. When I read the December 17 post, "A Christmas Story: Yours and Mine", I was moved all over again by the story in the song "Old City Bar." It was somewhat related to this 'encounter' I'd had with the circle around the moon.

http://mjreflecdtionsheart2heart.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-story-mine-and-yours.html

Soon after reading this post, I fell asleep in front of my computer and woke up around 4:00 a.m. with these words in my head: "Those of us who know, Those of us who see, Those of us who understand, We're right where we're supposed to be." That's when I wrote "The Circle of Life". A few days later, I sent it to Kendra, telling her about how the poem came to me and my feeling that everything was going to be alright, adding this:

"Now, what that means, I don't know. I just know we need to trust in God's timing and His love for us no matter what. That's all God asks us to do. If we can let go of our doubts and fears, then we will see that everything in our lives (yes, even the pain and suffering) holds a gift. Being able to trust when you've been hurt so deeply isn't easy... I know, and God knows too. Letting go and handing over the reigns when you have felt betrayed is probably one of the hardest things you'll ever do! It's not that you don't have ANY control over the outcome...you can do everything in your power as a human being to take care of yourself and seek the medical and emotional support that you need to ensure having a healthy pregnancy and to increase your chances of having a healthy baby. This is something you do very well, my dear, and I have every confidence you will do it again this time. All the rest is prayer and trust in God's love for you and your family.

"I knew right away I wanted to share this poem with you, but again I hesitated only because my own doubts started to creep in after some time had passed (as they often do!) and I didn't want to give you 'false hope'. After a little more time, I thought 'There is no such thing as FALSE Hope! Hope is HOPE... and Hope is good! Hope is one of God's wonderful gifts - if we don't have Hope, we have nothing!' It is true that sometimes our hopes are not realized, but that is where the trust comes in...and the believing in God's love no matter what.

"So, I've listened to that little voice inside and decided to send you this poem. I hope this touches you, honey, and gives you comfort and HOPE! What this poem did for me was to confirm my own intuition, the feelings I had when I looked at the moon and the words "Circle of Life" came to me and I felt that warm hug of assurance that everything was going to be alright. So I'm passing that assurance on to you."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

My friends - Now you know....the ressst of the story! (as Paul Harvey used to say)

I am filled with Hope for a beautiful healthy new baby in our family! Please join me in that Hope and in continuing our mission to create a better world for our children and grandchildren to live in! Trust your intuition and use it to be the best that you can be at whatever talents God has gifted to you! And always...put some Love back into the world each day, as Michael so faithfully did throughout his entire life. The Circle of Life continues - generation after generation. And if each generation can help to make things just a little bit better, someday this world may realize Michael's dream of peace, love and joy for all the world's children!

01/27/2011
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

This one's for you, Kendra!...

I love the above video, but I much prefer Elton John singing the song.
This is a great video too:
(see lyrics to the right in the sidebar)

Who Knew?

2011-01-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

Light of my life
Hope of my soul
Desire of my heart
Who knew it would be you?
And that you would be who you are?
To the world
To the children
To the heavens and the earth

Of Sacred worth
In communion with all that you are
Mystic... Shaman... Angel of God
Love personified
Dreams electrified
High art in human form
Mystery of our time
Power sent forth to heal the world

Dancing the dream
You endured such pain
Body and blood, heart and soul
Given to heal our sickness
Would take its toll
Our shadow was to blame
Now, we bow our heads in shame

Who knew it would be you?
Brilliant light cast upon the earth
Touching souls
Collecting and gathering
We, your children, into the fold
Before you would exit
Leaving us to be
Your messengers of love
To carry on your dream
Of a world filled with peace
Joy and harmony

Who knew it would be Us?
We are your children
Your chosen ones
Are we up to the task?
Do we have what it takes?
Do we even need to ask?

It's time to take the world by storm
To make truth and justice simply the norm
No more questions
No more doubts
It's time to teach the world
What this thing is all about
With love at the core of all we do
We'll be your voice
We'll tell them...
It was You!

It was you who believed in us all along
That's why you never stopped singing your song
You knew it would be us
Your love was the fuel
Igniting this fire
You knew we'd make a fuss
And carry on your desire

Mystic... Shaman... Angel of God
Love personified
Dreams electrified
Light of our lives
Hope of our souls
Power sent forth to heal the world
Who knew it would be you?
God knew... that's Who

07/20/2010
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Right Here Beside Me

2011-01-06T06:36:00.000-08:00

If you were here with me now,
what would I say?
Would I have the nerve to ask for a hug?
Would I be so bold as to ask you to stay?

How are things in heaven, Mike?
Is it all that you dreamed, all that you expected?
Can you talk to me now,
can you tell me how you’re doin’?
I really wanna know what it’s like for you in heaven.
Can you feel all our love, is it enough to see you through?
Does it feed your soul, nourish and make you whole,
or is it just another part of you?

I bet you miss your kids almost more than you can bear.
When they go to sleep at night,
do they know that you are there?
Can they feel your touch when you tuck them into bed?
Do you hold them close when their tears are being shed?
Can they feel your caress as you kiss their tears away?
Do they hear your voice when you whisper,
“I Love You so much more, dear ones.
You know I’m here to stay,
I haven't really gone away.”

Do you have any regrets of anything you’ve done?
Perhaps something you didn’t do while you lived here under the sun?
What do you feel toward those who betrayed you?
Is forgiveness just that easy when you're an angel of virtue?
How do you atone for things you may have done wrong?
And how do you love the ones who can’t bear that you are gone?

So many around the world have cried a million tears.
I don’t think we’ll ever heal.
We miss you so much, my dear!

If you really are right here with us all along,
I wanna know…
Do you ever walk on the beach alone
and wish you could connect?
Share a love you’ve never known
with someone you respect?
Do you dream about a love you lost,
or one you never had?
Is it one of those things you never get over,
or do you just accept that it wasn’t all that?

They say that heaven is right here on earth,
that we don’t even see it right before our eyes!
Is that true, Michael?
Is it just a different kind of birth?
Are you right here beside me whenever I imagine?
Can I reach out and touch you whenever I want?
And when I do…
Will I be in heaven too?

01/01/11
Copyright © 2011 by Charlene Burgess

For Public Consumption

2010-12-27T23:33:00.001-08:00

When I heard about a television program called “Famous Crime Scene” which was scheduled to air on VH1 in February 2010 depicting a re-enactment of Michael Jackson’s final hours, I knew instantly that I would not be watching it. I had no desire to see first-hand, second-hand, nor even third-hand accounts of the last hours of Michael’s life on June 25, 2009. Unfortunately, I happened to have my television on a few nights before the program aired and I accidentally saw a brief portion of the trailer before I quickly turned it off. I wasn’t even really paying attention to the TV at that moment, so it caught me off guard to look up and see a flash clip of paramedics administering CPR to “Michael”. That’s all it took. The actor portraying Michael looked so much like him that I was quite upset by this image for days, even weeks afterwards. I couldn’t get it out of my mind! I was extremely horrified by the experience and by the thought of other people hovering in front of their television sets to watch Michael die. It sickens me to think that there would be enough interest to warrant the airing of such a program.

At the time, I was also feeling very much alone in my community and among my friends and family when it came to my love for Michael. It seemed as if nobody else around me felt the way I did. Why was that, I wondered? How could that be, when I knew he had millions of fans around the world?! Why was my local theater nearly empty every single time I went to see “This Is It”? Were people really that unaware? Did they truly not see the beauty of this incredible human being who lived and loved among us for 50 years? How is it possible that they could not feel the loss of his immense light in the world?

The emotions I was feeling about all of this kept pushing and prodding to be expressed! So, the first half of the poem below was written the night before this re-enactment program was scheduled to air. I didn’t think I would ever share it with anybody, because for me it was simply a way to release the emotions I was feeling at the time. Even when I started my blog in July and reviewed all of my poetry to see what I might want to publish, I didn’t choose this one. I wanted this blog to be a place that reflected love and kindness and inspiration - everything that Michael was about. I wanted it to be a place where people who love Michael could come and feel better - to gather strength for the journey, even if my stories made them cry (as I have cried through every single piece I have written), because they would identify with the love and hope expressed in these writings, which are always inspired by Michael and his love. My vision for MJ Reflections was for it to be a place of light, comfort and refuge away from the ever present scandal which is never too far from anything related to Michael Jackson.

Now we have the upcoming airing of the
mock autopsy on the Discovery Channel in the UK. The fans have kicked it into high gear for this one, doing everything possible to stop this program, which is an appalling public exposure of the man we all love so much. The man who gave everything of himself to the world, and endured endless ridicule, persecution, character assassination, lies about his personality and actions, name-calling, and overall gross misrepresentation by the media of his true character. They have dissected and analyzed and cut him into tiny little pieces over every single move he ever made in life. And now this? These people have no conscience! This is one of the most outrageous and hideously disrespectful ideas anybody has ever had about Michael and how to capitalize on his fame. It must be stopped! I have gotten involved in letter-writing, signing a petition, and listening to Rev. Catherine Gross’ radio program today about this very subject. After the radio program aired, I pulled this poem out of my archives and was inspired to expand it to include this very issue we are dealing with today.

I must give a word of warning before you read this poem. It may be difficult for some of you to read. The topic is certainly not pleasant, and the emotions being expressed call for some graphic language in order to make a statement. (Believe me, my tears are all over this page.) Hopefully, this powerful statement will motivate you to do whatever you can to help stop this further invasion of Michael’s privacy. That is the only reason I have chosen to publish this here and now. I realize that inspiration comes not only from love and kindness, but also from outrage at wrongdoings toward innocent victims. I hope you will find the courage to read the poem and to DO something about this travesty, if you aren’t already. Underneath the poem, I have given some links to sites where you can get the latest information about the petition and about writing your letters and where to send them. There are some very strong-willed and highly motivated people who are working on this cause tirelessly, and I have faith that even if we don’t manage to get the program stopped, we WILL raise human consciousness about this issue! Please do what you can and God Bless You for being here, dear friends!

For Public Consumption

I saw ‘you’ on TV last night
The pain was intense, my chest was tight
As I watched you die before my eyes
They couldn’t save you, no matter how they tried
The final moments of your life would be
Played out on the screen for all to see

A re-creation, dramatization
For public consumption
Your privacy was not an option

Attempts to bring you back to life
Met with failure, your end in sight
Fraught with panic, anxiety
It’s Michael Jackson! How can this be?
A public figure, the world your stage
Your death is now all the rage
A tragic ending to a life so full
Of music and love, dance and toil
Selfless giving, heartache and turmoil

This world is not the same without you
But those around me don’t seem to have a clue
Of what we’ve lost, your essence, your light
Have they already forgot the truth, your plight?
I want to take the world by its shoulders
Shake it to the core, create lightning and thunder!
Open your eyes! Can’t you see?
This is the time for humanity
To sit up and take notice of who we are
We’ve killed our one and only bright star!

Your life offered up for public consumption
Images of you, your soul set free
Are burned forever in my memory

Now they want to open ‘you’ up
In front of the world
They won’t give it up!
Discussing and analyzing
The cause of your demise
You can’t say no, you can’t even wear a disguise

A re-creation, dramatization
For public consumption
Your privacy once again is not an option

How tragic that they feel entitled
To everything about you that should be private
Promoted as a thing of 'culture'
A public forum
Glitter glove on display to lure the viewing vultures
It’s plain as day, they lack any decorum

As the trial approaches, Murray will face the jury
But entertainment and money are all they can see
They don’t care ‘bout what they’re doing to your family
Nor the moral compass of humanity
It’s Michael Jackson!
Who else would they so hideously dissect?
You’re still the media’s favorite subject
A public figure, the world your stage
The cause of your death is now all the rage

Your body offered up for public consumption
Your privacy was never an option
Images of you, a corpse dissected
Will be burned forever in the memory collective

I will NOT stand by and watch this butchering!
I will shout and cry before its airing
To stop this insanity
This forgetting integrity
How can anyone with a conscience
allow this to be?
I want to take the world by its shoulders
Shake it to the core, create lightning and thunder!
Open your eyes! Can’t you see?
This is the time for humanity
To sit up and take notice of who we are
Our thirst for sensation has gone way too far
We’ve dehumanized our one and only bright star!

Your body is NOT for public consumption
Your privacy should ALWAYS be an option!

02/27/10 & 12/27/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

To sign the petition, go to:
http://www.petitionspot.com/petitions/againstdiscovery

For detailed information about where to send letters, as well as a sample letter you may use, go to MJJ-777's website:
http://www.mj-777.com/?p=6607

To read "An Open Letter to David Zazlav, Discovery Channel Board of Directors", go to Inner Michael website: http://www.innermichael.com/2010/12/2138/

A Christmas Story: Yours and Mine

2010-12-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

It's been a tradition of mine for many years to purchase one new Christmas CD each year to add to my collection. This year I decided to purchase the Trans-Siberian Orchestra CD entitled "Christmas Eve and Other Stories". To tell you the truth, I had never listened to their music before, although I had heard of them. This particular CD was produced in 1996, so it's been around a while. My general preference for Christmas music leans toward instrumental versions of classic carols or those sung by choirs. I also have artists such as Josh Groban, Jim Brickman and Michael W. Smith in my Christmas music library. Music that inspires is what I like to listen to, especially this time of year. Anything that tells the Christmas story and instills a sense of wonder and gratitude for the joy of the season and the precious gift of the Christ child.

I took my new Christmas CD to work with me the day after I purchased it, popped it into my boombox and began listening. But because I was busy working, I wasn't totally tuned in to most of the music except when a squealing electric guitar caught my attention. It surprised me because it wasn't what I was expecting - you might say I was even a little disappointed. Not that I don't like electric guitar, but it didn't feel much like Christmas music to me when I heard those parts! Nonetheless, I continued to play the CD as I worked. Soon there came a song that made me stop what I was doing to listen closely. A man's voice, a bit gritty and raw, was singing a ballad accompanied by an acoustic guitar. At first, I only heard his voice which touched something deep inside of me with its expression. I felt tears welling up and I didn't even know yet what he was singing about! I replayed the song and listened more carefully to his words and what I heard was a message as told in a story...MY story...OUR story of how Michael Jackson walked into our hearts and got our attention!

As you listen to the song and read the lyrics, think about this...For many of us, before Michael died, we were closed off, couldn't see past the end of our noses. We didn't even realize that there was anything we were missing...until June 25, 2009. Michael came into our vision and brought it into focus...he danced and sang his way into our hearts and taught us about all the things he had been noticing all along. Things that caused him heartache and concern for the world.

He noticed when a child or a fan in the crowd needed a hug...and he gave it. He noticed when a family or an individual needed help...and he offered it. He noticed when the world directed its prejudice or hatred toward certain kinds of people...and he spoke out about it. He noticed when we were blindly destroying our earth and not caring about the long term consequences...and he sang about it with passion!

He noticed when a sick or dying child just needed a touch or a smile...and he gave it with tenderness and Love in his heart. He was the little boy who came through the door into our sheltered world to show us what was happening outside, to shake us free from our comfortable places and help us to see that we could make a difference!

So, I decided to share this song with you here in hopes that we could be inspired to "somehow make this Christmas thing last"...

I wish you Hope, Peace, Joy, Love and always Inspiration this Christmas and throughout the coming year. May we continue to arrange to change the world as the Christ Child and our man-child have inspired us to do!

Old City Bar

In an old city bar
That is never too far
From the places that gather
The dreams that have been

In the safety of night
With its old neon light
It beckons to strangers
And they always come in

And the snow it was falling
The neon was calling
The music was low
And the night Christmas Eve

And here was the danger
That even with strangers
Inside of this night
It’s easier to believe

Then the door opened wide
And a child came inside
That no one in the bar
Had seen there before

And he asked did we know
That outside in the snow
That someone was lost
Standing outside our door

Then the bartender gazed
Through the smoke and the haze
Through the windows and ice
To a corner street light

Where standing alone
By a broken pay phone
Was a girl the child said
Could no longer get home

And the snow it was falling
The neon was calling
The bartender turned
And said, not that I care
But how would you know this?
The child said I’ve noticed
If one could be home
They’d be already there

Then the bartender came out from behind the bar
And in all of his life he was never that far
And he did something else that he thought no one saw
When he took all the cash from the register draw

Then he followed the child to the girl across the street
And we watched from the bar as they started to speak
Then he called for a cab and he said J.F.K.
Put the girl in the cab and the cab drove away
And we saw in his hand
That the cash was all gone
From the light that she had
Wished upon

If you want to arrange it
This world you can change it
If we could somehow make this
Christmas thing last

By helping a neighbor
Or even a stranger
And to know who needs help
You need only just ask

Then he looked for the child
But the child wasn’t there
Just the wind and the snow
Waltzing dreams through the air

So he walked back inside
Somehow different I think
For the rest of the night
No one paid for a drink

And the cynics will say
That some neighborhood kid
Wandered in on some bums
In the world where they hid

But they weren’t there
So they couldn’t see
By an old neon star
On that night, Christmas Eve

When the snow it was falling
The neon was calling
And in case you should wonder
In case you should care

Why we’re on our own
Never went home
On that night of all nights
We were already there

“Christmas Eve and Other Stories”
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, 1996

Remember The Gift

2010-12-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

As we begin this season of waiting to celebrate the birth of Jesus, I would like to offer a series of poems and reflections based on the weekly themes of Advent - the first theme being HOPE. The following poem was published in an Advent devotional booklet for my church this year which was written entirely by its members. I am pleased to share it with you here. I fully respect and honor the diversity of beliefs that make up our colorful world - a world that is filled with beautiful and unique individuals, all a part of God’s magnificent Creation. No matter what your beliefs, I think most will agree that there is a power which is greater than ourselves at work in the universe - a power grounded in a great love. My heart extends its warmest wishes to you during this season of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love!

Remember the Gift

Holy Spirit come, fill me with your love
wash over me, enlighten me, strengthen my belief in Thee
I need discipline to travel, this mystery of life to unravel
I vow to give my best, take time to nurture my faith
let it simmer while I wait
‘til Your guidance reveals which path to take

God of love and compassion
through my trials you have been my constant companion
but my patience is tested when it’s time for a rest
in my prayers I seek answers to my questions
You don’t always lead where I want to go
Your timing is not always mine
please give me the courage to believe what you know

My Creator,
You gave me fire in my spirit
then said, don’t fear it!
be bold, be brave, share the love which I gave you
it is true, it is right
it’s your beauty, your passion, your own special light!

So, why must I wait, this flame to embrace?

Remember the Gift, the sweet Kiss of Love
Magical Child sent to earth from above
your soul to save from its own mistakes
His arms outstretched, ready to embrace
awaiting your surrender to God’s amazing grace!

The Gift accepted, my soul awakens
this waiting, this nurturing reveals the message
Peace, Love and Hope abide within each soul
the Gift cannot be denied
I must strive to be God’s Glow
a voice of Hope to a world in need of Love

11/21/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

That Smile

2010-11-30T05:20:00.000-08:00

That Smile

Magical

Enchanting

It lights up a room

Changes the atmosphere

Obliterates gloom

Piercing my defense

It invites me to dance

Sends love on a journey through my soul

Bathes me in light

Gives me courage to take a chance

Joy and tenderness

Reflected from within

An offering, a gift from your heart

Shining through the veil of shadow

It opens the door

Becomes a part of me

Extends an invitation to make a new start

That smile could end wars

Dispel hatred and fear

Bring peace throughout the land

A simple gesture bestowed in love

Creates harmony

Bids all people of the world to walk hand in hand

Accept it

Embrace it

Absorb its light

Let it warm your soul

Feel it down to your bones

Hear its music

Move to its rhythm

Take that chance

Open your heart

Invite others to join in the dance

Allow that smile to work its magic

As a flame ignites a burning love

Melting hearts around the world

A gem that sparkles and shines

Transforms humankind

Like a grain of sand turned into a pearl

That smile…

Created to beguile

To inspire, to delight

Brings darkness to its knees

And offers LOVE to light up the night

11/23/10

Michael's Magic

2010-11-24T21:50:00.000-08:00

What an amazing adventure this has been so far! Riding this wave of discovery, pain and love has been one magical experience after another. Yes, even in the pain, as difficult as this may be to comprehend. I think it's something only those who are on the same journey can fully understand. Others may hear our words as we attempt to describe the impact Michael Jackson has had on our hearts and on our souls. They may nod their heads and even say they understand, but in all reality, they can't possibly. It's just not understandable - it defies logic. How does one feel such a strong soul connection to someone they have never met? And how can one say they are grieving the loss of this individual more than they've ever grieved for anyone, including their own family members? That just seems wrong to anyone who has not been on the receiving end of Michael's immense light and love. I can understand their questioning and their doubt. I've had plenty of that myself along this path.

So, it occurred to me several months ago that my family members might be a bit bewildered by some of the poems and stories I had written about this experience, should they come across them by accident. What if something happened to me tomorrow and all that is left for them to piece together the mystery of this phenomenon I've been speaking of for the last year and a half are my poems and other writings which are kept in files on my computer? Some of the poems are quite personal and could appear to be proof that maybe I had lost my mind just a little bit! These more personal poems are some of my most treasured, and I would not want to leave them in the hands of someone who didn't understand the depth of this experience. If I had the opportunity to explain all of this to them through my writing, knowing they would be reading it after I was gone, what would I say? And recognizing that when someone dies, their loved ones suddenly see them more in the light of truth and goodness, I knew that anything I left behind for them to read would hold so much more meaning after I had gone than it would right now.

I decided to create a file that would hold all of my most treasured writings with a personal message about what this experience has meant to me and what I hope they will hold in their hearts after I'm gone. I would like to share a portion of that message with you here.

Funny...when I started writing, the first thing that came to me was a poem...

Michael’s Magic

To those who may read what’s in this file
After I’ve gone to heaven’s domain
I want to explain
So you won’t think I was totally insane!

Rest assured, there’s more to this than meets the eye
Michael has touched hearts with his love worldwide
I have no illusions of physical love, my head is on straight,
Just ask God above!
Because He’s behind this, you can be sure
In His grand plan, Michael was the lure
His life was designed to get our attention
Send the messages and make us question:

How do we live?
Are we contributing to a better tomorrow?
Or are we feeding humanity’s darkness,
adding to the world’s sorrow?

How do we love?
Are we kind and thoughtful, always forgiving?
Or do we judge harshly how others are living?

When in our presence, do others feel our peace?
Or do we cause tension, discomfort, or great dis-ease?

Think about it and read my words
His love is a gift, it’s changed my world
He made me realize
That a love such as this can be the prize
For a life of bliss, no surprise!

Our soul connection is just as true
As anything between me and you
God gave him to us for just awhile
To teach us about a love worthwhile

Anyone can claim it
It’s free to those who seek it
His example was perfect
No need to change it or rearrange it

To those who judge
You’re missing the boat
The greatest story ever wrote
In plain sight for all to see
His message of love will set you free

05/22/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Michael never hesitated to express his love - for his fans, his friends and colleagues, his family, and most of all for God, as he expressed over and over his humble gratitude for his divine gift. He was a dynamic force for love in the world and all who knew him will tell of his other-worldly presence, the way he made them feel, always bringing out the best in those who could see and feel his light. They say that you won’t see the light in Michael if you don’t see it in yourself. To that I say, take a look in the mirror and ask yourself, ‘If I don’t see the light in Michael, what am I missing in me? Why have I buried my light? And why am I afraid to bring it out into the open? What is it about love and goodness that frightens me so? I want to know!’

If you really want to know, God will take your hand and show you his plan - you can be certain of a journey you will never forget. The path to your light may be difficult at times, even painful, but the love and enlightenment you experience along the way will be the most perfect, pure, and soul-freeing feeling you have ever known!

When I speak of my love for Michael and my soul connection with him, it is with an understanding of him being so special a gift to many, many others around the world. I’m not alone in this! But it feels personal to each and every one of us; and in a way, it is! It appears we have been “chosen” to share his messages in the world, for our own individual reasons. Our unique life experiences have drawn us each to his light, and we have been transformed. Michael’s love is a pure, perfect, selfless kind of love that most of us find very difficult to express in our “humanness”, for we are not perfect, nor are we entirely selfless. He has transformed millions of hearts around the world during his lifetime and since his death. He gives us hope for a better tomorrow, and makes us feel that it IS possible to make the world a better place.

We can only hope to live our lives in a way that brings out the good in others. To express and give the kind of love that has no conditions upon it, as a child does. The pain and suffering we experience in life often hardens us to that kind of love. Michael was unique in that he was gifted with an inner knowing, an understanding about that kind of pure goodness - the importance of love - and he expressed it so freely, showing us by his example that no matter how much life knocks you around or how much hatred and cruelty you encounter, it’s LOVE that lives on and conquers the darkness of man! He died trying to bring that message to us one last time, even after certain factions of humanity beat him to a pulp and judged him for things that were based solely on lies, creating a global misunderstanding of his true nature. Because man is so tainted by his own darkness: greed, ego, lust for power, call it what you will - but the reality of what happened to Michael reflects the darkest and most sinister aspects of humankind.

Michael was gifted with an extremely bright light - so bright, in fact, that we didn’t quite know what to make of it. He spent the majority of his life being very misunderstood, judged for being ‘different’, and portrayed by the media as a freak. He had a strong faith and a clear understanding of his purpose in life, his divine gift and how he was to use it. He stayed strong through all the ridicule. And although Michael attracted much darkness to him because of his bright light, his love lives on and is ultimately the most powerful force in the world! This is the message God is sending to us through Michael!

Michael’s entire body of work, everything about the way he lived his life, including his struggles and how he handled them, his appearance, his health issues, his childlike nature, his gentleness, his kindness, his passion as expressed through his music and performances, even his anger over the injustices in this world, were all designed to get our attention - to make us sit up and take notice! His death was the starting point of an “awakening” around the world. This phenomenon is growing, it’s gaining strength and numbers as more and more people realize they are not alone in this experience and as others come to a new understanding of the truth about Michael Jackson. As difficult as it is for many of us to accept, I believe he had to die for people to start searching, wanting to know more about this man who was such a huge presence in this world. Efforts to understand why many judged him so harshly have led to a new knowledge of the real man behind the mask. Technology has given us an opportunity to view and read about his entire lifetime of music, interviews, speeches, performances, humanitarian efforts and even unguarded moments captured on film. Altogether, we see an entirely different man than what was portrayed by the media all these years! Shock and disbelief at how we could have been so fooled has been a common reaction among many. Or maybe we just weren’t paying close attention. Even those of us who were not "so fooled" are still discovering many new truths about this genius who lived and loved among us for 50 years.

We have come to the realization that this is a time for us to take a look at ourselves as a human race, to become aware of the things about ourselves we would like to change, and to BE that force for change in the world! This is everything Michael was trying to tell us when he was here! It’s all in his music - and in his example, his entire life - available for us to see and hear, to finally understand why he was here! If we don’t see it, we are losing out - we will miss the miracle that is right in front of us! I believe that Michael was a spiritual messenger, sent by God to teach us, to show us how to live and love. To show us the darkest side of humanity, so that we would be inspired to make a change in ourselves and to do everything we can to make the world better.

The Boomer generation knows more than any what this is about. When we were younger, we believed we could make a difference in the world - change it for the better. We marched, stood, sat, chanted, rallied and sang for peace, love, equality, justice, and freedom of expression in an effort to make the rest of the world see that there was a better way. Previous generations had gotten too comfortable with their way of thinking, and it didn’t work anymore - things needed to change! And it was our time to bring that change about in the world. We did have an effect - change did happen and we made progress toward those ideals. But somewhere along the way, the Boomers' passion faded. Many of us “gave up” the cause when we grew up a bit more, got married, settled down, raised a family, got busy just making it through a day in our lives with all the demands of simply existing.

Michael represented the hope we had when we were younger - the hope for a better tomorrow. His messages echoed everything we stood for. And as he continued to rally for change and enlightenment, we stood by and watched with interest this force, this powerful energy in one single human being who never gave up - who stayed the course on our behalf, and he did it alone! God’s timing of Michael's life here on Earth was immaculate! Michael’s death, and the subsequent awakening of the world to his purpose was preordained in my opinion. The Boomers are now coming of age - full circle so to speak. Empty nesters coming into retirement are now ready to receive the message, and to do something once again to effect change in the world! Michael knew this. These lyrics from his song, JAM, reflect that awareness:

The world keeps changing
Rearranging minds
and thoughts
Predictions fly of doom
The Baby Boom
has come of age
to work it out

Although the Baby Boomers are not the only generation experiencing this awakening and receiving Michael’s messages, the timing of his life and his death, I believe, was part of a plan to bring the boomers back to a state of enlightened consciousness to lead the way, creating another global movement for change!

One of the most amazing things about this experience has been to see how he has touched people of all generations. Every age from toddlers to seniors are feeling his energy, not only in his music, but they are also experiencing his love and his goodness in ways that we could not have imagined just over one year ago. We have so much to learn from him, and my hope is that minds will continue to open up to the possibility that Michael Jackson may just have something valuable to impart to us all. Those who resist because they don’t understand, or they don’t “get” this thing about Michael, will spend their life missing out on one of the greatest gifts in our lifetime.

I feel so utterly blessed to be one who knows - to be "chosen" to receive this remarkable understanding! I hope and pray my loved ones and friends will join me on this journey, or at the very least open their minds to the possibility that what I am sharing is absolutely everything I say it is! Even if you don’t get it until after I am gone, please know that I LOVE YOU with all my heart and soul and I wish for the same kind of awareness to come to you in your lifetime - no matter what form it takes, no matter who the messenger. For you to know that this immense light, this perfect kind of love can be real for anyone who seeks it. And for you to understand why I behaved the way I did, why this was so important to me, and why it changed my life forever!

Now...to get to the question I know has been nagging at you since the beginning of all of this: "How in the world could she feel so deeply about someone she's never even met?" I'll do my best to explain. Along this journey, I have felt a sense of knowing Michael, of our souls being connected somehow, somewhere, without really comprehending how or where or why. This feeling was very challenging for me to come to terms with in the beginning - it took months for me to finally accept that it could be. I don’t profess to know with 100% certainty whether I have ever "known" Michael before, and I don’t imagine I will know with 100% certainty in this lifetime. What I do recognize is that God has worked very hard at cracking my heart and mind wide open to receive this Gift. It is a calling which I cannot say "no" to - it comes from God! And I have come to know without question that there IS a connection of some kind - a spiritual bond between two very like-minded individuals with numerous "threads" connecting us throughout our lives. These threads went undiscovered until his passing. And I didn’t go looking for them - they came to me! Too many synchronicities to make this connection only a coincidence. And too many "coincidences" to be anything less than part of a very grand plan designed by The Master himself! I have my own ideas regarding what it all means, which I have already told you about here. But I am certain there will be pieces of this grand puzzle which will remain a mystery until I leave this world. I have come to accept that and, in the absence of 20/20 vision, I have called upon my faith to simply BELIEVE that God, the infinite power and authority of the entire universe, knows what He's doing! As Michael sang in the song Keep the Faith..."the power's in believing." Now that I have come to believe, my part is only to seek direction and a willingness to act on fulfilling my specific calling.

Beyond this, I must add that I do believe Michael’s essence represents a universal kind of spirit and love in the world. There are many around the globe who have expressed the same feeling of a soul connection to him, so I am not under the illusion that it’s just me. His universal presence and appeal is, I’m sure, part of the plan to get his messages to as many people across the globe as possible. This makes sense, but it doesn’t change the feeling inside that it’s personal. And I believe that feeling is intentional. It's something God has gifted to us and he wants us to accept the Gift!

The poems and writings I have posted in this file are deeply private and they represent the very personal nature of my feelings about Michael and my connection to him. These are not the unfulfilled fantasies of a crazed fan, I need you to know that and believe it! These writings are my way of processing my feelings about this personal connection, my understanding of what it may mean, and my coming to terms with it. They express my deepest emotions, and they hint at how I am drawing from the inspiration I received from him in this process. Yes, I do feel a deep love for Michael - his heart and soul - Michael the person. I believe he represents the kind of love I have longed for all my life. I honestly don’t know if I will find it with another person in this lifetime, but Michael has helped me to believe in it again. I beg you to respect my experience and to help me continue his legacy of love which I hope I have passed on to you.

These writings are everything to me - they express all that I am at the deepest part of my being! If you destroy these, you destroy my being in this world. These pieces, along with everything in my journal, represent the culmination of my life experience. Through this soul awakening, I have come to understand that my entire life, all 57 years of it, was preparation for this moment in time. That’s how big this is! And that’s why it may have seemed to you at times that I was overly obsessed. Do not judge me until you have walked a mile in my moccasins! I assure you, this experience is as real as anything you experience in your day-to-day living!

How does a person explain an entire lifetime of something missed? A sense that a true spiritual kind of love has passed you by - that everything you believed in as a child was wrong and would never come to be in your world. How does one explain the feeling of emptiness in your soul because of the mistakes, the dead ends and the days of just existing? How does one explain that they’ve never felt a sense of purpose or known what God intended for them in this lifetime? How do you approach the latter part of your life without ever having resolved that? There has to be more to one's life than this! And then, the answers come! Completely out of the blue - totally unexpected - and through a person you never dreamed would be your muse! It’s been life-changing, to say the least, and I hope that you will find it in your heart to honor me and my memory for what I am striving to do with my life - that you can tell your children and grandchildren that their grandma and great-grandma made a difference in the world and you are so very proud of her!

My true hope is that you will gain an understanding of my heart and my soul - an acceptance of who I was during my time here on Earth, mistakes and all. That you will cherish and respect my memory and you will know and feel this great love as I have been so blessed to receive. If I have truly lived as I have been called to live, the things I have done to contribute toward a better tomorrow should give you pause for reflection on your own life and whether you are contributing to a healthier, more loving humanity. And you will remember this all began with a little Moonwalker from Gary, Indiana!

I have no doubt Michael Joseph Jackson will be remembered for generations to come, not only for his musical talent, but also for the ways he contributed to changing the world for the better and inspiring others to do the same. I expect the “flavor” of what we will hear and read about Michael in the years to come will change from the sensationalistic stories of a "weird" eccentric genius, to a more realistic view of a man with a heart who shared his immense gift in order to make the world a better place. A spiritual messenger living among us! May HIStory tell the real story, the truth of this man who lent his light, his magic and his heart to us for 50 years and beyond!

Looking at You

2010-11-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

I know what’s beautiful
Looking at you
Fireflies that light up in the night
Dewdrops on a flower in the morning sun
Stars that sparkle and dance in the sky
A bird singing her lullaby
Summer rain, its sweet fragrance filling the air
An evening’s sunset that makes me sigh

Through the eyes of a poet
You take me there

I know what’s beautiful
Looking at you
Your smile, so innocent and bright
The light in your eyes when you look upon a child
The way you just know what’s right
Your soul that glows from within
Dignity and grace in all its glory
Your love that touches me, lends its light

The truth of your heart
The telling of your story

I know what’s beautiful
Looking at you
Sunlight bursting through the clouds on a beam
A falling star on a warm summer night
Dolphins that frolic in the sea
An eagle commanding the air in flight
Children at play on a beautiful day
Their innocence and magic, laughter and glee

Fireworks
On the 4th of July

I know what’s beautiful
Looking at you
Dancing in your arms ‘til the break of dawn
Whispers of love at morning’s light
Holding you close ‘til the pain is gone
A touch to say it’s gonna be alright
Feeling your heartbeat next to mine
While in your embrace, you sing me your song

The Gift of your heart
A love for all time

I know what's beautiful
Looking at you...

07/03/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Daddy Dear

2010-11-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Did someone tell you
You weren't good enough
Belittling and bullying to make you feel small
Is that why you thought you should pass it along

Reclaiming your power to make you feel tall

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Forever a prisoner of your own mistakes
Losing hopes and dreams
When others held your fate
Your life coming apart at the seams

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Did I get in the way
Of everything you hoped to be one day
Was it my light, my passion, my love for life
Did I challenge you to look in the mirror
Did my radiance cause you fright

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

The legacy of your forefathers
Passed down through the ages
Being threatened by a new generation
Calling your authority into question

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Loss of control in a world that was changing
Turning to love
Hearts and souls rearranging
Boomers coming of age to work it out
Standing for justice
We would sing and shout

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Was it love, peace or equal rights
Freedom of speech, truth or justice
When we got tough 'cause we'd had enough
And we wouldn't give up the fight

Daddy dear,
What did you fear?

Did you not understand
God's purpose
God's plan
For a world filled with love, no more fear
God's dream was in our hands, daddy dear!
Don't you know there's only one way
Truth and Love are here to stay

Daddy dear,
Why do you still fear?

I pray that you will find your peace
Forever held in God's loving embrace
Don't worry 'bout me
I'm finding my way
Through the clutter of doubt
In a world gone astray
It's time to finally make that change
For a better tomorrow
For the whole human race

Daddy dear,
Have no more fear!

Your trials are coming to an end
I forgive you, daddy
And I'm moving on
For God has given me a true love friend

Michael Forgive Us

2010-10-31T08:19:00.000-07:00

I’m so sorry I was not there
To lift you up, let you know I cared
When things got tough, the world so cruel
It wasn’t enough just to say “those fools!”

Your dignity was trampled
Your light snuffed out
Your faith in humanity
Was plagued with doubt

How could one so gentle and pure
Be tortured more than anyone could endure?

You always gave your love and kindness
Showing us how to be our best
For this they told the horrid lies
For money and greed, to claim the prize

Your soul did not matter
They held your heart on a platter
To be diced and sliced, chopped into bits
They were not nice, but you took the hits
Held yourself with dignity and grace
You stood tall, the demons to face

And even though you were found innocent
The light in your eyes would remain reticent
Never to quite fully recover
Its former brilliance went undercover

Safe and protected from the enemies of your heart
Cushioned from harm you made a new start
Healed a bit, but still not the same
Your light was beginning to burn through the shame
Peaking through the shield of pain
It started to shine from your soul once again

This Is It was the plan
A gift for the fans
We were thrilled beyond measure
Singing and dancing your dream, your adventure
You would give us such pleasure!

To us, your brilliance was never gone
We held you in our hearts all along
Waiting for your wounded soul to heal
Returning to the stage to make us feel
The heat and passion
of your love and affection
We would once again be wooed by your amazing perfection!

Then….out of the blue
your life was taken from this world
On June twenty-fifth, our minds were in a whirl
Can it be true? Is this for real?
In shock and disbelief, we could not feel

Numbed by the news, the world went silent
The stage was now empty, your light stolen from it

Is there something we could’ve done to prevent it?
Loved you more? Healed the planet?
Would that have changed your story in the end?
Would sleep have been your friend?
Did we not do enough while you were here
To show appreciation for your gifts so dear?

For sacrifices made to deliver the message,
was our offering no more than a mere vestige?
A sample so small, you couldn’t see
That you were making a difference
How could this be?

We let you down, fell prey to the shadow
Apathy conveyed through our lives so shallow
Did you have to die for us to know
The importance of your life, your message, your show?

If we had only been
more like a true friend
Listened to your heart from the start
You knew all along that what you had to share
Was critical for the world to hear
You tried… gave us everything you had
Your joy, your anger, the good and the “Bad”

We heard your message, but didn’t respond
We just wanted a piece of you ’cause we were so fond
Your love was pure, your beauty bright
Your sweetness made our hearts take flight

And even though you loved our adoration
It wasn’t enough to prevent your ultimate submission
The pain was too much, the darkness very real
It took you from us, I don’t think we’ll ever heal

I’m not sure what I could’ve done
Written a letter? Called you on the phone?
I am nobody… would you have known?
Could I have made a difference, kept you from goin’?

Put the light back in your eyes for the world to see?
Restored your faith in humanity?
Taken your pain? Kissed and made it all better?
Turned the rain into sunshine with just a letter?

Now that I know, now that you’re gone
I cannot change it, the past is said and done
But I can beg forgiveness for my apathy
Try to make a difference in your name… throughout eternity

The messages you worked so hard to impart
Continue to be real, still rendered from your heart
Now free of limitations
I can do my part
Heal the world, change human relations
What I should’ve done from the very start

Making amends to you in this way
Will not bring you back, but it will make “them” pay
Justice for you will take a new form
For love and kindness will become the norm

All who love you are joining hands
A gesture of unity among your fans
creating a new community
With love at the center of all we do
Your lessons remembered, this is our cue
To make the world a better place…for you!

Let us not forget, always respect
Your example was perfect
No need to change it…dissect it…or reject it

May the Force of Love continue in your name,
Dear Michael…
One who is most like God

04/03/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Here to Stay

2010-10-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

“O Christmas Sun! What holy task is thine!

To fold a world in the embrace of God!”

~ Guy Wetmore Carryl ~

Christmas Day 2009...Six months since Michael's death. Six months of extreme emotions and still not understanding it all. Why was his death affecting me so powerfully? And why was I persistently compelled to learn more about this man, and driven to dig deeper with every discovery? I didn't know the answers to these questions, but I did know that God was moving mountains inside of me, and there had to be a very good reason. The love that was growing in my heart for a man I never knew was very real and intense. The palpable reality of a world in need of change along with a growing awareness that I was somehow to play a part in its healing became more apparent to me as time went on. But I still didn't understand the "How?" or the "Why?" of it. And, to add to this challenge, there was a nagging, shadowy doubt that would visit me frequently along this path, causing me to question the validity of my experience. In spite of that, a part of me knew that no matter how confused I was about all of this, I just needed to believe, and to know that God would reveal what I needed to know when I needed to know it.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, I had been feeling called to the ocean. The last time I was near the ocean was about a week after Michael’s death, when I bought his “Number Ones” CD and began listening to his music again after many years without it. I drove through the majestic Redwoods and all along the Northern California coastline while listening to him sing to me those familiar tunes...his passion and energy infusing itself into the deepest part of my soul! I had forgotten how powerful that energy was - it was beginning to work its magic on me once again, touching me and opening my heart after years of living in a self-imposed protective bubble. It was the beginning of a remarkable journey of discovery for me. It was also the beginning of my extreme grief over his loss - to myself and to the world.

A private coastal retreat over the Christmas holiday in 2009 would prove to be a major turning point on this journey. Michael's spirit touched me in a way that is difficult to explain. Three days entirely devoted to communing with nature...meditating and talking with God...listening to Michael's music...and writing daily journal entries after 6 months of intense grieving and soul awakening moments, would set the stage for a remarkable spiritual experience and an unwavering connection to Michael. He found a way to let me know in a very personal and clear manner that not only was this connection very real, but also that he wasn't going anywhere - that he would stay with me through this experience and I could count on it! I felt in my heart as if Michael's commitment was God's gift to give me strength for the journey ahead.

The day I was to return home from my ocean retreat was the day I wrote my very first poem. It was short and sweet, a simple verse, but the words flowed through me like running water. I'd never had that experience before and it was quite profound! I cherished that little verse because I thought it was the only poem I would ever write - my "Christmas Sun" miracle - but God and Michael had other plans for me. This new gift of writing was also here to stay!

O Christmas Sun

O Christmas Sun, My Love, My Light
You’ve given me strength to endure the night
In a fleeting moment you did appear
You gave me hope, took away my fear
You touched my soul, so deep, so true
And brought me joy at the sight of you
Your heart is warm, your beauty bright
Your gift is Love, My Sun, My Light!
~
Forever and Always, Michael…
“I thank God!”
~ Charlene ~

Several months and many poems later, on a beautiful spring day in March, I went to a local park on my lunch break. Enjoying the warmth of the sun as well as the sights and sounds of children playing, I was inspired to write the following poem...

Here To Stay

It's a beautiful Spring day
The leaves of April are on their way
The sun warms me through and through
Love so intense coming from you

Reminds me of that Christmas Day
Not so long ago
You let me know
You were here to stay

You offered your light
and said, "Let it be
your strength… forthright…your soul set free!
Share the warmth with tender care
And remember...
Love is the temptress, the gentle snare

When challenged, hold fast,
shine your light,
be true to yourself, you know what's right
Your soul was created to carry this cross
With courage and vision, commitment to the cause

Facing down your doubts and fears
when those who judge come forth to jeer
Confronting, challenging the truth as you know it

Just breathe…
Remember the love...
Remember to show it."

I will call forth the lessons you left behind
For others to hear
Change their minds
Their hearts transformed, no longer conformed

Love is the weapon of choice to use
In defense of your voice, my heavenly muse
Your beauty, your courage, displayed through me
The Gift illuminated for all to see

Higher expectations, raising the bar
You’re still getting our attention from afar!

You knew that, didn’t you?…goin’ in
Your light would be forever stayin’
In the hearts of those who’d be your messengers
The legend to tell…your truth…lessons learned

Children at play
On this beautiful day
Remind me of all you stood for
Their souls so pure
Would be the lure
Your music inspired, to open the door

Help us to see the need that exists
To care for and love them without remiss
Value their souls, so they can be
Happy and whole, their very best

You've asked us to nurture
These little ones
So close to God
For they are the hope of the future
Why would anyone consider this odd?

They will carry your message, your perfect love,
for generations to come
They’ll see the world become a better place
Turn this one ‘round, change its face!

Years from now when I look back
To see what kept me on track
The sun warming me through and through
Love so intense coming from you
I’ll remember that Christmas Day
So long ago
When you let me know
You were here to stay

03/19/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

Exposed

2010-10-14T23:08:00.000-07:00

Several months into this journey with Michael, my confidence in what I was experiencing continued to grow. But it was by no means a straight path! Trust in my intuition as well as belief in Michael's presence would take many dips along the way into that dark pool of doubt. And sometimes the notion that Michael Jackson's spirit could actually be touching base with ME just seemed too outrageous to be true! I mean, we're talking the biggest star in the world here! There were times when the reality of this would hit me and I would ask myself why I would ever think that Michael Jackson would even have the slightest notion of who I was. It just seemed insane at times!! It didn't always make sense from a practical standpoint, and that was the gauge I was accustomed to using - my practical sense of earthly things - things I could see with my own eyes. My faith in God was probably about the only exception to this. In every other spiritual sense, I had been playing it safe far too long and had very little trust in things unseen or in matters of the heart and soul.

I had been considering attending a local "Holistic Faire" for some time to get a reading from someone with psychic abilities. I didn't know much about it, but I had been to one of these faires previously with my daughter, sat with her and took notes while she received a reading. I was mostly curious to hear what someone with this special gift would feel or sense coming from me or in the energy field around me. In a way, I think I was wanting to receive some kind of validation of what I was experiencing. A complex mix of thoughts and feelings were having their way with me about taking this risk - putting myself out there to be examined on a spiritual level by a complete stranger. Not knowing how reliable their "gift" would be and knowing that mistakes could be made caused an inner conflict with my need for validation. What would I hear? And what would I DO with that information? Most important, how would it effect my own perception of my personal experience? Would the reading be so vague that I would not find the answers I was seeking; consequently, adding even more weight to the doubt which already plagued me from time to time?

In March, after much inner deliberation, I made the decision to attend the Holistic Faire. The plan was to just wander around the room to get a feel for who was there, how I was feeling about being there, and to make a decision at that time whether I would go for a reading. Well, almost as soon as I entered the building, I felt a sense of dis-ease about it, but I wasn't entirely sure why. There were many people attending this faire, so there was a noticeable "buzz" in the room. It was a positive energy among people who were already well acquainted with one another, lending a sense of community to the environment. Under normal circumstances, this would be a good thing; however, my vulnerability caused me to feel very much like a stranger in a strange land. I proceeded with my original plan, picked up some information at the front table and walked around the room, reading the bio's on all the participants and getting a feel of the space. A variety of psychic gifts were represented, all of which I knew very little about. Each booth was only semi-private, with other people waiting in line for their readings. It all seemed too distracting and impersonal. My experience with Michael and our connection felt very personal to me, and the thought of exposing it to a stranger in this environment was quite unsettling. It didn't take me long to decide that I was not ready for this! I determined that I might consider a private reading later on, but for now, it just didn't feel right. When I left the facility, I went for a drive to process my feelings, stopped at a favorite spot along the river, and wrote the poem "Exposed" which is printed below.

Later on, I told a friend and mentor about the decision I'd made and she affirmed my choice, saying that I had done the right thing by following my intuition about the discomfort I was feeling, and she thought it was important for me to discern from my heart what my own truth was about this experience with Michael. Imagine that...me, getting back in touch with my heart and trusting it! I'm happy to say that I have made much progress in that area since March. Now, for the most part, I "just know" when Michael is present, communicating with me in his own unique ways to let me know this experience IS, indeed, authentic and he will be there when I need him. I no longer feel the need for human validation of this incredible journey, as this adventure has been affirmed by God and Michael in all the ways they make themselves known to me. As I stated in a previous post...they're in this together, you know!

Getting back to my heartspace and trusting it has been such an amazing gift, and I celebrate this Gift every single day! Although the path is still not entirely straight, my confidence in the truth of this experience has grown tremendously. I no longer question it. And Michael has been nothing if not consistent at showing up at just the right time to give me a loving nudge, sharing a little more of his light with me so I can see my way to the next thing - moving ahead inch by agonizing inch toward the goal of making the world a better place! Perseverance is one of his greatest virtues!

Exposed

Feeling exposed
Walking into a crowded room
Filled with those who would know my fate so soon

Can I trust their gift to get it right
May cause a rift, what is their insight
My soul laid open for all to see
What lies inside of me

Escaping the prison that was my life
My wounded soul sliced open with a knife
His death would be
The start of a new journey
My broken heart revealing
My truth, all that I’ve been feeling

This awakening
Charged with joy, fraught with pain
Something inside me come to life again
I’m learning to trust, to understand
The message, my part, his guiding hand

Not always sure of my sanity
Someone said, that’s ego, it fears its own mortality
Be gentle with it, it’s like a child
Selfish needs will try to rule, resist, defile

But if I believe in my calling
Love will rule the day
Keep me from falling prey
To those who doubt, including my fragile ego
This is not about self, God is freeing me to go
To places I’ve only dreamed
Experiencing love in the extreme
My gift to impart to others from my heart

The journey so far has been resplendent
Overflowing with love, light and encouragement
Taking me beyond my wildest expectations
His light so bright, filling all the empty spaces

Wanna hold on, never let go
Can I keep the light burning all on my own
Is my belief strong enough to withstand
Comments from those who don’t “get” the man
Can I still love and know as God knows
What lies within must be exposed
Still wanting to protect this precious gift
If others inspect, will the treasure be lifted
Invasion of privacy allows them to judge
Can I be exposed without bending to the nudge

Vulnerable, but strong, taking a stand
For truth, love and justice, he’ll hold my hand
He won’t let go, for this is the call
The mission to send his message to all
If validation is what I seek
Remember his courage and don’t be weak
All that he endured for the cause
Will give me strength and conviction without pause

Being exposed is part of the test
Persecution from all the rest
Will be my cross to bear
For this great love I am blessed to share

03/13/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess

A Sliver of Shimmering Light

2010-10-07T01:17:00.000-07:00

His spirit abounds
Among the stars, the moon, and the clouds
I look up to the sky
Whenever I step outside
Just to see if I can find
A hint of him hiding behind that tree
Magical, mystical, wonder of light
I see him nearly every night

One night in April I found to my delight
The crescent moon curved up in a smile
Made me swoon
A tiny sliver of shimmering light
Hanging out with some twinkling stars
Casting their glitter about
Like fairy dust on Mars

Framed by dark silhouettes
Of trees and mountains in the distance
He gave me a ringside seat
For a momentary show of his beautiful glow
Peeking out from under his home
A stunning reflection of his love
… Pure perfection

I said, “Well, hello sweetie!”
And he smiled right back at me!
He captured my heart
Ignited that spark
It was our private moment in the dark

Then a cloud came by
Covering him like a blanket to say goodnight
A nod, a wink, and a wave of his hand
Gave me a clue this was not the end
Descending behind the mountains
His light glowed on the western horizon

I thought, what a gift to behold!
To see him in that moment
As if he was there just for me
Long enough to say hello
This child would be
Playing peek-a-boo behind the moon’s glow
Letting me know he's still beside me
Cheering me on
Singing for me his heavenly songs
Encouraging me to stay on track
Not to be discouraged, he’s got my back

This journey is long
The way is not always clear
The answers will come when the time is right
God will help me kick it in gear
Take the next step to own this light
Face the shadow and change the world…without fear!

Oh, what a night!
Believing in magic and moonbeams
Adds a whole new dimension to my life!

05/16/10
Copyright © 2010 by Charlene Burgess