Show you care before it’s too late
ONE particularly poignant tweet on Christmas Day suggested we should get 24 hours’ notice of the deaths of famous people.
That way, suggested the internet philosopher, the deceased would get the opportunity to learn how much they were loved, admired and appreciated.
That should apply to all – not just the famous. How many times have we heard someone being praised at their funeral and thought: “If only he/she had heard this when alive?”
Many folk who praised George Michael in death probably had not thought much about him for years. He wasn’t in the news regularly. Headlines, when they did appear, had not been great.
Yet his sudden death was greeted with genuine shock and sadness. Those who knew him only through his music spoke of the joy it brought them – it was exuberant, playful, perfect pop.
As an artist whose work was dismissed in some quarters as lightweight, George could have done with hearing that.
Those whose lives he touched in a more direct, personal way paid moving tributes. This was a man who was genuinely loved. We now hear of his generosity, usually shown quietly with no desire for recognition or glory.
Millions were donated to charities including Childline. There was also personal generosity.
Back in the 80s, cynics mocked the contribution of Andrew Ridgeley to Wham! They asked why he got any credit.
Friends speaking after his death said George wanted Andrew to have financial security. So he was happy to share credit with a good mate and performing partner without whom there would have been no Wham! George Michael was loyal to a fault.
It is nothing short of tragic that this good soul should have died so young.
Clearly he was a person who struggled to beat drug addiction. He suffered despite his loving family and friends.
Addiction is an illness which can strike anyone, famous or anonymous, friendless or surrounded by people. Often the sufferer is judged harshly when alive … as George Michael was when he got into very public, and publicised, trouble.
Now he is heaped with a loud, effusive outpouring of love – alas too late.