Like so many, I am compelled to follow the latest celebrity family tragedy on T.V., the Conrad Murray, M.D., trial. The Jackson family seemed so close. At the funeral they crowded the stage, competing for the chance to express their love and even sing their grief to a willing throng. But on the night he died, Michael Jackson was alone in his house under only Dr. Murray’s watchful eye.
Michael Jackson was an adult and capable of making his own decisions. He was also a damaged man who had trouble with closeness, possibly from physical or other abuse, and famously stated he had no childhood. He had a long history of addictions. So if you cared for him, would you trust the decision making of Dr. Murray? What if your only claim to fame and only potential income came from his ability to perform and he allowed you to ride his wave with him?
Difficult questions. Love is not a public display or flowery words. Love is looking after the ones you care about. Would I let Conrad Murray with his bag of phamaceuticals in the home of a loved one unattended? Not as long as there was breath in my body.