Michael Jackson's Daughter, Paris, Speaks at Memorial Service
The Most Important Words a Girl Can Say About Her Father is "I Love You"
Surrounded by her famous aunts and uncles, including LaToya, Marlon, Janet, and Jermaine Jackson, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson said, "Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine, and I just wanted to say I love him... so much," before succumbing to tears and gripping the microphone for support. Her aunt, Janet Jackson, gathered her into a hug before the Jackson family helped Paris away from the microphone. Hers was the final tribute of the memorial service for Michael Jackson.
According to CBS's Katie Couric, this was the first time Paris Jackson has ever spoken in public. Although it lasted a mere 30 seconds, Paris Jackson's short eulogy touched my heart more than any other words that were uttered during the Michael Jackson memorial service.
I was 15 when my father died, and I spoke at his funeral. True, my eulogy for my father wasn't in front of a packed Staples stadium, nor was it broadcast for the world to see, like Paris Jackson's words were for her father. Also true is my father wasn't famous world-wide, like Michael Jackson was. But to gather up the courage to speak in front of a large crowd at your father's funeral is something with which I can identify.
To feel the need, the desire, to openly speak your mind, and give your last public words in your father's memory is something quite powerful, and I know exactly how Paris Jackson felt those moments before she spoke. I watched Paris Jackson lean against her aunt, Janet Jackson, for strength during Marlon Jackson's speech, which was given right before her own. I saw Paris Jackson bravely approach the microphone and wait patiently while Jackson family members worked to lower the stand to her height.
My heart pounded with Paris Jackson's heart as she opened her mouth to speak. I held my breath as Paris Jackson's family members urged her to speak up. And I cried real tears with Paris Jackson as she squeaked out those so important words, "and I love him... so much."
Sources:
CBS televised coverage of the Michael Jackson memorial service
Personal experience
Published by Heather K. Adams
Heather K. Adams is an award-winning journalist with the North Dakota Newspaper Association. While she can write on many topics, she specializes in personalized national and state news reports, music, and pa... View profile
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7 Comments
Post a CommentI was also moved by Paris' tribute to her dad. I've heard people say a lot of unkind things about Michael Jackson lately and I even overheard someone say that Paris' speech was too much. But at the end of the day, it shows how much Michael Jackson was loved by his children and others close to him.
Sophie
Great article, Heather. I love Saul's remark. :)
You'd think that after years of singing they would've adjusted the mic stand a bit quicker
Exactly Angie. That's exactly why I felt it was necessary to write about her speech. It truly took my breath away and I bawled. I couldn't *not* write about.
This is where it matters. All the adults can say what they want about the guy, but it is his children that will save Michael Jackson's image. Bet on it.
I've been an objective observer of the circus surrounding Michael Jackson's death- until Paris spoke. And then it really sank in- he was LOVED. By his children, his family, his friends, and his fans. Thank you for sharing your very personal take on today's memorial!
Great write up, it was beautiful and touching!