The 22nd day of November has become a day to celebrate Michael’s life achievements at MichaelHutchence.org, rather than focusing on the enormous sorrow and impact of such an unfathomable loss. Yet Michael’s untimely death was followed by a succession of sad and tragic consequences. His passing broke the hearts of so many, particularly those who were closest to Michael. It is one of life’s hardest realities, seemingly too often overlooked, that those closest to us sometimes go through a debilitating crisis alone. Serious mental health and well-being issues may go undetected as a love one suffers in silence, bearing it alone. Tragically, unchecked it can lead in an irrational moment to a precipice that has irreversible consequences.
Nineteen years on and we still feel the tragedy of his loss, not just the loss of a precious life, but of the consequences. Primarily the loss to his family, but also the loss to colleagues, friends and fans and above all, loss of life opportunities for Michael. But something I have learnt through it all, my journey with Kell and Susie and the friendships formed, I feel confident that Michael would want something worthwhile to triumph through such loss. If he was able to personally express to us all today, what he so wonderfully expressed in his life and music, he would passionately say, “Live, live!” Live your precious life, with optimism, faith and hope. Never give up hope and always look on the brighter side of life. Love others without bias or prejudice, don’t dwell on the hurts of the past but find new vision to live the present and the future in a renewed determination to overcome adversity, and wait for light and joy to shine through again if any dark cloud may currently hang over you. Try to forgive. If you are going through really difficult emotional trauma, share this with a trusted friend. Never solve temporary problems with such a permanent tragic solution. Realise we can muster the will to change, by God’s grace and power, the changeable aspects in our life that rob us and others of love, joy and peace. We can also find the courage to accept that which cannot be changed. In dark moments we need light, from spiritual inspiration, from a dear friend we have faith in.
While living in Hong Kong, Jon and Michael co-wrote a song “Faith in each other” that was to form part of the X album. The lyrics still ring true. Listen, really listen to Michael’s words.
“Yeah, you got to have faith in each other…”
(Loved ones)…”they give us a reason to go on living.
It’s all in the choices that you have to make
I got to tell you, you better make them good.”
Rest in peace you gentle-spirited, loving, kind and passionate man.
Ian Patterson for Susie Hutchence, Mario and Jacqueline Ferrari, fellow Co-Directors at MichaelHutchence.org