Rest in peace, Michael Jackson.

Dear Michael, I never knew you. Never, not once, did I ever have the chance to experience the pureness of your soul in real life. Never have I heard the sound of your beautiful laughter that seemed to gush out of your lips, sweet and brightful, as if your joy was uncontrollable, simply impossible to resist sharing with others. That is, never have I heard it in real life. But even now, despite the fact that I will never actually meet you, I have memorized your laugh, permanently engrained in my mind, its beauty forever remembered. And the way you smiled– pure and blissful, and your devoted generosity, your innocence, your music, your humanitarianism, your gentleness, your sensitivity, your flaws– your insecurities, your perfectionism, and your naivety – I love it all. And all of it has helped me through the darkest of times, just as I am sure it has helped millions of others across the entire globe. Your raw determination and the belief of always striving to be the best paid off more than you will ever know. And now, seventeen years after your death, we love you more than ever possible, Michael. All of us. Your fans, and even those who wouldn't particularly consider themselves ‘fans’. Casual listeners and just everyday people slowly begin to learn of your beautiful soul, of your perseverance, of the transcendent impact your music has had on the world, and of your innocence. Now, in the year 2026, the world seems to appreciate you even more than ever. From tributes like the recent Michael movie that came out in April, the world slowly but surely begins to understand you fully. But there is a bittersweet, lingering thought in my mind whenever I think of it. You will never be here to experience this, to experience the one thing you have always wanted in your life– love. I’m sorry for that, Michael. I’m sorry you couldn’t see that while there were many people during your lifetime that believed you were a monster, there are so many more people now that know the truth. There are so many people that now know of your kindness and innocence. I’m sorry you had to go without knowing how loved you truly were. Angelface, we love you so much, forever, and I hope your spirit knows that, somehow, even if you are not physically here with us anymore. Because even through your darkest hours and your deepest despairs, we will still care, and we will still be there. And through your trials and tribulations, through your doubts and frustrations, in your violence and your turbulence, through your fear and your confessions, and in your anguish and your pain, through your joy and your sorrow, we will never let you part. For you’re always in our hearts. Rest in peace, applehead. We will miss you forever. 🕊️