The Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait officially began 5 years ago today, on Michael's birthday. I feel blessed to have been part of this team, in part because it gave me the opportunity to hear so many personal stories from people about how Michael has impacted their lives. Many people have told me about how they often turned to his music when struggling with things in their own lives. It gave them comfort, hope and escapism from their troubles. Some of those people even credited him with saving their lives. I can't help but wish that he would have been able to hear some of those stories while he was living. He made a difference in ways he probably never even knew.

While Michael certainly had his share of accomplishments, I think one of his greatest is the MJ Community itself. He brought together people from all around the world and made us a family. Although we have our differences, we have one thing in common that sustains us- our love for him. I've said it before many times but I'll say it again. I sincerely love being part of this community. We share something that is special and unique. We share a heart. We share a soul. We share a great love.

Michael Jackson's legacy is vast - his music, his humanitarian work, the children he lived for - but one of the greatest parts of his legacy, is the community of people he left behind. All of the amazing things that have been done in his name - and continues to be done - is a testament to the power of love. He did what he set out to do...unite the world through love and music. We are the world. We are his legacy. We are his family. May we continue to be that for many years to come. 

Happy Birthday #MichaelJackson from the millions of fans that love you more. ♥