Michael Jackson laid to rest today

Above: Mariah Carey & Trey Lorenz performing one of the many musical tributes at the Michael Jackson Memorial

Michael Jackson was memorialized publicly in the Staples Center in Los Angeles California, in what was a moving and heart-felt ceremony which was viewed by millions - if not billions - worldwide. The show which was everything the BET Awards failed to be was a tribute to the life of the King of Pop, where many friends and relatives emotionally eulogized the personal and often misunderstood side of his life.

Above: Usher, seen here beside the coffin, fittingly sang Jackson's Gone Too Soon

His legacy will live on, and though it is belated, the recognition of all his efforts has finally come. As Rev. Al Sharpton told Michael's children sitting in the audience during his tribute, "There wasn't nothing strange about your daddy. It was strange what he had to deal with."

From early, his star quality was apparent

It is unfortunate that his life was treated like a circus, and his name was constantly a target of ridicule. It is also a pity that the world is only now beginning to appreciate Jackson's feats, such as the fact that he holds the Guinness World Record for the Most Charities Supported by a Pop Star, and his life was spent trying to unify the world and abolish man-made social barriers.

"Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say I love him — so much." - Paris Jackson

Somewhat unexpectedly, Jackson's daughter Paris addressed the audience, and delivered the most touching tribute to her father. Though short, it was emotional and sincere, and one can only hope that it puts to rest all the stupid queries about his competence as a parent.

"Maybe, now, Michael, they will leave you alone." — Marlon Jackson

In his tribute, Marlon Jackson admitted that "We will never understand what he endured... being judged, ridiculed," and I think that he is right. For an example of just how roughly Michael Jackson was treated, and how it affected him, watch the candid documentary Living with Michael Jackson.

Click here for more coverage of the Memorial.