“Is it really your job to (insert topic here)?”

Let me address the argument of “If you don’t want to watch it, you can turn from it” before even writing my thoughts. The answer quite frankly is, no, I cannot turn from it. The 24 hour news cycle and numerous media outlets are playing the information endlessly. I want the information, but in its proper form, tastefully and professionally done with an element of morality and sincerity present.

I have been watching the coverage of the passing of a legendary, philanthropic musical genius, humanitarian and selfless international icon in Michael Jackson. Aside from what fans feel they know about him and his life through the portrayals in the media, Michael was a human being first, who had a family. A person with a family who is now grieving for the loss of their dad, son, uncle, brother and friend. Regardless of this family’s iconic status in musical history, like anyone else, they are mourning the loss of someone close to them.

So I ask, is it really the media’s job, at this very moment, right now, before Michael has even been put to rest, to report on all of the supposed “wackiness,”“shenanigans” and “allegations” that plagued the latter years of Michael’s life? Or to also report on numerous speculations without having all the facts, even if you report that you are speculating, knowing that it is human nature for individuals to spread non-truths in conversations as fact? I have just seen a story where the news media has found Bubbles the Chimp. Really. My goodness!

So I ask, is it really the job of Michael’s “friends,” at this very moment, right now, before Michael has even been put to rest, to speak out about his supposed dependency on prescription drugs, his not wanting to be black, or his being eccentric? Or should there be a respect that says, instead of serving their own self-interest, these “friends” should recognize that these are private issues, that should be discussed with the appropriate authorities right now?

So I ask, is it really the job of entertainers, at this very moment, right now, before Michael has even been put to rest, to give the “King of Pop” a “tribute,” worthy of a celebration for a new artist selling his first 100,000 copies of an album, than the celebration worthy of an icon? Is it the job of the network to put together a rushed show, or is it better to announce the plans of a more organized, well thought out and rehearsed accolade? I’m referencing the BET Awards specifically, and how disappointed and disgusted I was while watching. To the credit of some artists, who gave a fitting tribute, the rest were self-serving with a half-hearted rest in peace and a procession to a performance plagued with profanity, scantily clad women and alcoholic beverages on stage. A performance that is the antithesis of everything Michael represented. To everything, there is a time and place, and the award show paying homage to Michael was neither the time nor place. BET should be ashamed.

My point here is this: at this moment, right now, before Michael has even been put to rest, can everyone put their self-serving interest aside to give one of the most giving people in history, a proper home-going? Will there not be ample time after his passing to tell their side of the story, or hawk their latest album, or get the story they’re looking for?

Can we not for a moment, stop and self-police and recognize that Michael was not a cartoon character, a sitcom character, a reality TV star or a soap opera actor. He was not a freak, a weirdo or a wacko. When the cameras were off, he still lived, breathed, cried and processed hurt, pain, highs and lows like everyone else. He was a human being with emotions that people apparently couldn't care less about while he was living. Redeem yourselves, even if temporary, and resist the urge to “do your job,” until he has been laid to rest.

Rest in peace in Michael. Your music will continue to live on. But most importantly, your spirit of kindness, giving and sincerity has not been lost.

Love, peace and sunshine.