Today has turned out to be a sad day. The world has lost Michael Jackson, and I’m feeling a maelstrom of emotions.

Aside from the fact that, in my opinion, Thriller is the best album ever recorded…aside from the fact that Mike was a divinely talented musician…aside from the fact that he entertained the world for decades…aside from the fact that I can remember being six years old and breakdancing to Thriller in my parents’ basement…aside from all of that, Mike helped define a time.

I’m listening to “Human Nature” as I write this, and I’m remembering a time in the 80s when Mike was the most popular person on the planet. I remember the way people were dressing, the movies we were watching, the cars people were driving, and the myriad other things that belong to a time that has now so clearly passed and that will never be repeated.

Mike represents something to me beyond amazing music and incredible dance moves, and his death is a reminder that every moment of life is precious. It makes me realize how connected all of us are who are sharing the small sliver of space and time called our lifetimes.

My kids will never know a world where Mike is moonwalking and where people are wearing shimmering gloves and red jackets to imitate him…but his music (and with it, the unique spirit of a time I shared) will be around for as long as civilization endures.

Rest in peace Mike. This world will miss you.

Eddie B