Coping with the Loss of MJ

Michael Jackson's death has forced many to cope with a great, sudden loss. Here's how one Sparkler, Bearsley, is dealing with her grief. —SparkNotes Editors

I, along with a countless number of people, was shocked when I heard the news that Michael Jackson had died. As I sat staring at the TV screen, a giant glop of frozen yogurt fell out of my mouth, right into my lap, which delighted my dog but made me sad because I liked those pants. Anyway, Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, has moonwalked into the great beyond.

My love for MJ goes way back. In 5th grade, when faced with the question “Michael Jordan or Michael Jackson?” I answered “Michael Jackson,” only to be shunned and called a "creeper-lover" (very creative, Zack) because I stuck up for the musical genius of my favorite 80’s pop superstar. Now my friends have matured into a very geeky group of music lovers, and they can finally all appreciate The King of Pop.

To cope with the loss of this monumental superstar, what must we do?!! Here are my suggestions:

• Step away from the freezer—trust me, I’ve already eaten enough frozen yogurt for all of us.
• Put the old records on (or turn on the iPod), cue up the best dance songs of The Gloved One ("I'll Be There," "Black or White," "Rockin’ Robin," "Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough," "Rock With You," "Beat It," "Thriller," "Billie Jean," and any of your other personal favorites)
• Don your glitter socks
• Perform your best moonwalk, thriller claw, toe stand, and other crazy M.J. dance moves that have no name (but someone should get on that).

My condolences are with you, and I'm rooting for you in your struggle to get over this huge loss to our pop culture. Happy dancing (or thrusting, depending on your decade of choice)!

Having coping problems? Any favorite Michael Jackson memories? Eaten too much frozen yogurt? Share with us how you're letting go of this pop star!