Michael Jackson’s Death

The death of Michael Jackson created a center stage for children and teenagers going through the grief and healing process. Everyday a child becomes fatherless and/or motherless but when it occurs to an icon’s family, the world takes notice.

Michael Jackson’s death reminded all people, that life is a struggle after death. Michael Jackson’s children Prince, Paris and Blanket are going through their grief process as I write this blog. They were forced to move out of their house and move with their grandmother. The children and the grandmother had to adjust to the new living arrangement and at the same time go through the experience of hurt and pain because of their loss. Not only are Michael's children feeling the agony of his death, so are his family, friends and fans. When an icon dies, millions of people goes through the grief and healing process because of the loss.

Grief and loss happens to everyone. To assist in your grief and healing process please remember this very important fact “it is okay to grieve and heal”. As Michael Jackson’s children move forward to a new life without their father I pray and hope that the ones supporting , caring and loving these children, allows them to grieve openly and honestly.

CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS CAN EXHIBIT THE FOLLOWING BEHAVIOR BECAUSE OF GRIEF: bed-wetting, temper tantrums, regression, inability to focus, head aches, stomach pains, clinging to adults and siblings, nervous, afraid, crying, extreme sadness, and mood swings.

TIP’S FOR HELPING GRIEVING CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS

- Reassure them that everything will be okay. Increase love and affection, more hugs and more quality time. Create a consistent routine that is simple. Incorporate fun and happy times for the children and the family as whole. Be patient with the less desirable behavior but put limits and expectations on all children.

Ruby L. Taylor, M.S.W.

http;//RubyTaylor.org

http;//JoyWillCome.com