The Axiom Of Responsibility
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Taking Responsibility
For Themselves And Their Children

Michael Jackson is still all over the news with stories about his drug addiction, the possible role his doctor played in his death, the custody battle for his children, and whether or not the Norwegian rapper Omar Bhatti is his son. Day in and day out, through interviews with former employees, friends, business associates, and anyone else who has the slightest, most insignificant details to provide the media, each and every detail of Jackson's life is dissected.

To our amazement, Jackson is consistently called a "good father" throughout the majority of these reports. Yes, Michael Jackson was a fabulous entertainer whose music brought joy to people around the globe, a historic icon even. However, "good father" is not an appropriate label for him, and here's why:

When you become a parent (no matter how), you become responsible for your child. According to Magna Sententia, taking responsibility for your children means providing them with food, shelter, and protection; making sure they receive a proper education; teaching them the value of hard work, fostering their character, being the director of your home, and setting a good example for them, just to name a few.

Given that he was a drug addict, there is no way Jackson could have fulfilled all of these responsibilities to his children. (Setting a good example?) Worst of all, his addiction led to his death, which means that his 79-year-old mother must now assume all of his responsibilities to his children. His mother may be a wonderful woman with a loving, kind, compassionate heart; regardless, Jackson should never have so irresponsibly endangered himself, in effect burdening his mother with his three children.

As parents, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard. We must do everything within our power to meet all of our responsibilities to our children and be a positive example for them to use to pattern their lives. Most importantly, we must protect ourselves from unnecessary dangers so that we can fulfill our commitment to them.

Although we hate to say something negative about a person so many love, the truth is that when Michael Jackson abused drugs after becoming a parent, he disqualified himself from meeting the criteria of a "good father."

Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of Magna Sententia
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society