Hello all.
Chris O, here.
Disturbing revelations to say the least.
What can one say about such upsetting and sad new, without hurting others even more? It is difficult to put into words what I have been feeling about this, other than sadness and pain. Just contemplating the words that will be flung carelessly about concerning John and Mackenzie is enough to make me want to cry. Regardless of what the truth is. How cruel we all are to each other, at times.
Owen wrote: Read the book and be your own judge. Sound advice, but I don't think I can read it, just now. I can, however, be my own judge.
I find that I need to admit this: I believe Mackenzie.
Certainly pain is an undeniable aftermath of such revelations. Anger and hurt. Still, the best thing that could happen, is healing. Coming to peaceful terms with mistakes one has made; with crimes that have been commited against us. Forgiveness for oneself, and for others. Sometimes you have to wade through a whole lot of shit before you can get to the sunshine.
I don't think that any of us have to condone incest or approve of it, in order to come to terms with healing and moving on, as Mackenzie seems to be trying to do. I don't believe that I have to give John Phillips the golden thumbs up for ANY of his bad behavior, or offer up any excuses for ANYONE, in order to enjoy music.
Here is what truly hurts me: John apparently raped his daughter. How I hate to even think of such a thing. That they continued in whatever kind of relationship is their own business. Of course, Mackenzie has now chosen to make it the business of the world. So, the opions and feelings and words will fly. Some will argue that she should have kept her mouth shut. We must remember that it is her story to tell.
I have always had love for John Phillips. He has given me things that I can never repay with his brilliant artistry. That he was a seriously flawed human being, is not news to me. I do not believe that this new information will change my opinion on the good things that he did with his life. It does not destroy my love for him, or for Mackenzie. It is not only a choice that I am making, but where my heart is taking me.
To be completely honest, this news has made me feel awful, but not surprised. I cannot explain exactly why, but that is how I feel. John Phillips was so completely taken over by drugs and alcohol. That is a condition he actively and willingly passed on to those whom he should have protected the most. The entire dynamic of his family life was completely heartbreaking.
Mackenzie asks that we do not hate her father. She feels that despite all, that he was still a good man. I have to confess, that I still believe this, also. He gave joy in his life, as well as the pain. He was not an angel, and he was not the devil. Despite all of his extraordinary gifts and tragic mistakes, he was finally just a man.
I know many of you will disagree with my opinions, as they stand today. I wish you all healing, whatever you might be going through just now, fellow listeners and readers.
Love to all,
Chris O