Remembering George Michael

George Michael, the iconic singer and songwriter, who passed away on Christmas day, exemplifies the fact that songs are far more than just catchy, rhythmic tunes, but carry with them a deep spiritual meaning.Every song you listen to these days and from yesteryears can be interpreted in a spiritual context, if you just take the time to sit down, and understand what the singer, the band is attempting to convey to you. Go beyond labels, genres, styles, preconceived notions and get to the root of the message.It is important that you read beyond the lyrics to understand the depth and spirituality of a song. For example, George Michael’s song, Faith, at first glance appears to be a song about Faith in a higher being.However as you listen intently to the song’s lyrics, you will realize he is attempting to convey faith in a body, whether a man or woman’s as an embodiment of creation – the creation of humankind in God’s vision.Like the brightness settings on your computer, spirituality appears in different resolutions and different intensities, in different songs.George Michael sings:Well I guess it would be nice if I could touch your bodyI know not everybody has got a body like youBut I’ve got to think twice before I give you my heart awayAnd I know all the games you play because I played them too.But I need some time off from that emotionTime to pick my heart up off the floorWhen that love comes down without devotionWell it takes a strong man, babyBut I’m showing you the doorIn the song Faith, George, is attempting to convey that the mutual attraction (perhaps, lust) shared between him and his partner doesn’t have enough devotion in it, prompting him to end the relationship as he feels it doesn’t have a divine connection and is based purely on physical attraction towards the body of the partner.So, he wants to end the relationship but he also has to be strong enough to believe in a higher purpose in order to do so. He is searching for a long-term peaceful divine connection, but is also being tempted by short-term pleasure. Isn’t this the dilemma of all human beings on Earth? George Michael was a deeply spiritual man who committed many acts of altruism that he didn’t publicise, which is a reflection on his true spirituality and his desire to give out unconditional love.The depth of his being is evident in the song Freedom.Think I'm gonna get myself happy.I think there's something you should know.I think it's time I told you so.There's something deep inside of me.There's someone else I've got to be.Take back your picture in a frame.Take back your singing in the rain.I just hope you understand.Sometimes the clothes do not make the man.Freedom reflects George Michael’s desire for being himself –spiritually speaking. The line, “sometimes clothes do not make the man,” in the song perhaps reflect his spiritual longing to be his true self distinct from his physical body, and attaining a new plateau in spiritual freedom.His songs are far more than just catchy, rhythmic pop tunes – and when you read between the lines have a deep spiritual meaning about being your true spiritual self, and not conforming to any limitations, or inhibitions.Among his more popular songs was the beautiful, Last Christmas.Sadly, he passed away while the song played around the world, an eternal favourite on Christmas Day.The world will remember George Michael as a creative genius of the music world. Some of his fans will also talk about him as a philanthropist.But his legion of true fans will remember him most for the deep spiritual impact that his songs left on their souls.