Inspiration Equals Janet Jackson
by Elaine Flores
She has a way about her that many in the entertainment industry don’t possess. Now don’t forget I’m talking about an icon. Funny how she still hasn’t been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This hopefully will change soon. Thanks to Mike Litherland and his endless hard work to #InductJanet we hope that 2017 is finally her year because she isn’t just your everyday entertainer. She has been performing successfully longer than some of you have been alive.
What draws us to her? That smile for one. Why? Probably because we know how real it is. Janet Jackson is genuine. So is that what it is? Is that where the inspiration comes from? I think so in some ways. Yes, we’re drawn in by her being an entertainer, but there has to be something that keeps us wanting more. Janet Jackson is able to be who she is and remains humble and grateful through it all. She gives back in so many ways and doesn’t ask for anything in return. She is the epitome of style and grace.
What draws me in even more and probably many of us is how soft spoken she is. You don’t see her all over social media saying, “Check me out.” In fact she’s so private that when she does choose to come out of “hiding” we all stop what we’re doing to engage in what she has to say. Admit it. You’re guilty of it just as much as I am.
We want to know how she’s doing. We want to know that she’s okay. We feel like she’s a part of our family. She takes the time to say “thank you. “ She takes the time to say, “I love you.” And we say it back. Or should I say we shout it back with every ounce of energy we can find! Her song “Unbreakable” is a thank you to her fans and friends. She takes the time to tell us how important we are to her. This is what inspiration is. If you need something tangible to help you understand, just think of Janet Jackson. She inspires through her truth and honesty. Does she know that we’re here and does she listen? Yes she does! So keep letting her know how she inspires you because truth be told, I think we all inspire her in some way as well. In all our individuality and quirkiness as JanFam, J-Tribe or however you want to call us, she thinks of us often and we think of her. Thankful for the inspiration she gives us.