Break The Cycle - R.I.P. M. J.

I understand that for some this is a touchy subject. However, I also understand that there is a valuable lesson to be learned from this story. All of you that are interested have already searched the Internet and watched at least one of the many televised specials searching for answers. This posting has very little to do with M.J.s impact in music throughout the past four decades or the opportunities his success has led to in the entertainment industry. It has nothing to do with the questionable health of the King of Pop. This has everything to do with the poor decision making by the most popular entertainer in history. Michael Jackson has sold approximately 750 million records worldwide. He has 13 Grammy Awards and 13 number one singles (only counting his solo career).

With all of the money earned over the historic career, how could Michael Jackson be in debt? Remarkably, the answer is simple. The King of Pop died in debt due to poor decision making. The reason for the poor decision making may never be known, but the fact remains the cause of the enormous debt is poor decision making. As I stated, there is a valuable lesson to be learned from this story. It isn't necessary that one be a millionaire to learn from this tragic story. The principles behind financial management are the same for one earning $40,000 or $4,000,000.

With frivolous (a.k.a. STUPID) spending being pushed primarily through the "new hip-hop" culture, should we expect more financially appalling stories? Why are so many people foolish enough to follow the blueprint for financial ruin? The formula is simple; if you earn $50 but spend $100 you will end up in debt. Are that many people incapable of living within their means? Is it because of societal pressures or personal ignorance? There are many lessons in this sad saga, among the most crucial is the often ignored obligation to becoming financially educated.

Tell Her Today

Well, she is a woman. She may not say it, but she loves to hear those words. It doesn't matter if you're her son or daughter. Your mother and mine love to hear "I Love You." For them, it serves as a thank you. Thank you for all of the sacrifices made. It may remind them that they're sacrifices were worth it all. Although Mother's Day has passed, there are still numerous reasons to show appreciation for all she has done.

So often life proves to be an interesting cycle. If you're lucky, life starts with many people expressing their love for you. As one gets older, the unfortunate reality is realized...many of us hear those three words less often. However, most would agree the one person who remains consistent is MOM. Big Bro. and Little Sis. still love you (probably as much) but for various inexplicable reasons they say it much less. Then we (generally speaking) have children and accept that it is all about them. They need to know that they are loved. They need to be told how special they are. They are arguably the reason we hear "I Love You" much less. Very few of us would choose feeding our ego over properly developing a child's self-esteem and self-worth. Throughout this process (only if you're lucky), MOM has never stopped telling you "I Love You." If you are really lucky, she even calls you that embarrassing alias before expressing her feelings of affection.

Now that you recognize how good those words help you feel...go ahead...call Mom.