Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, dreamed of living for 150 years. To pursue this dream, he appointed twelve doctors to examine him daily from head to toe. Every meal was tested in a laboratory before it reached his plate. Fifteen dedicated people oversaw his daily exercise and workouts. His bed was equipped with technology to regulate oxygen levels. Organ donors were kept ready at all times, maintained carefully under his watch, so that whenever needed, they could immediately donate their organs.
He was determined to defy death and live a long life.
Yet, alas, he failed.
On June 25, 2009, at the age of 50, his heart stopped. Despite the tireless efforts of his doctors and specialists from Los Angeles and California, nothing could save him. For 25 years, he never took a step without medical advice, yet he could not fulfill his dream of living 150 years.
His final journey was witnessed live by 2.5 million people—the longest live telecast ever. On that very day, at 3:15 pm, Wikipedia, Twitter, and AOL’s instant messenger services faltered. Nearly 800,000 people searched for Michael Jackson on Google simultaneously.
Michael Jackson tried to challenge death, but death challenged him back.
This story is a powerful reminder of the impermanence of material life. In this materialistic world, we often embrace a materialistic death instead of a natural one. This is the unchanging law of life.
Now, let us pause and reflect deeply:
- Are we earning wealth for the builders, engineers, designers, or decorators of our homes?
- Whom do we want to impress by showing off expensive houses, cars, or extravagant weddings?
- Do you remember the food served at the last wedding reception you attended?
- Why do we work so tirelessly, like animals, in the race of life?
- For how many generations ahead do we want to save and secure comfort?
- Most of us have one or two children—have we ever thought about how much we truly need versus how much we want?
- Do we save extra because we fear our children might not earn enough?
- Do we spend quality time with ourselves, our family, or friends during the week?
- Do we invest even 5% of our earnings in our own well-being?
- Why don’t we seek happiness alongside our earnings?
If we think deeply on these questions, our hearts may ache. We may suffer from ailments like slip disc, high cholesterol, insomnia, and more—symptoms of a life out of balance.
The Divine Truth:
Spend time for yourself. Remember, we do not truly own any property; our names are written temporarily on some documents. When we say, “This is my property,” God smiles with a crooked smile.
Do not judge a person by the car they drive or the clothes they wear. Our greatest mathematicians and scientists traveled by bicycle or scooter, yet their contributions to humanity were priceless.
It is not a sin to be rich, but to be rich only in money is a sin.
Control your life, or else life will control you.
What Truly Matters at the End of Life?
Contentment, satisfaction, and peace.
These precious treasures cannot be bought with money.
A Prayer for Inner Peace and Wisdom
O Sai Baba, You who embody infinite love and wisdom, teach us to seek the wealth that never fades—the wealth of contentment and peace. Help us to balance our worldly duties with spiritual growth, to cherish time with loved ones, and to nurture our souls with devotion and kindness.
Grant us the courage to let go of material attachments and the wisdom to find joy in simple living. May we walk the path of righteousness with faith, knowing that true happiness lies not in possessions, but in the grace of Your divine presence.
May this reflection inspire all who read it to pause, breathe, and realign their lives with what truly matters—the eternal values of love, peace, and spiritual fulfillment.
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