Jessie Peralez got his wish. He danced on Soul Train.
This wish exemplified the purity of this young man. He didn't want to go to an amusement park or meet a celebrity. Why? His spirit needed to dance. And for several minutes he did. Watching Jessie dance you knew he loved Soul Train, music, dancing, life and himself. You forgot he had a terminal illness.
As “I Want To Break Free” by Queen continued playing, Jessie's beauty and passion reminded me that the greatest freedom is in the simplest pleasures. Though there are many wishes, some wishes are what wishes were made for.
Update 1-24-12
According to the Soul Train episode that aired June 16, 1984*, Jessie (correct spelling) was 9 years old. This makes his possible birthdate range January 1-June 15, 1975 or June 17-December 31, 1974.
According to a comment on the internet, Jessie returned home/transcended on June 5, 1985.
An online search, excluding paid or trial sites, revealed one match that fits his birth parameters. The US Social Security Death Index lists a Jessie Peralez born January 5, 1975, death June 1985. Therefore, Jessie Peralez, born January 5, 1975, Death June 5, 1985. He was 10 years and 5 months old. He is still dancing but no longer for himself but for us, to get up and out there on life's dance floor that is so full of soooooul!
Update 11-01-14
Jessie Peralez's appearance on Soul Train continues to receive a high degree of attention on the internet. This is as it should be. The Spirit is in motion. This article is the most read on this blog. Soultrain.com published an article in August 2014 without any obvious attribution as to the source of the facts in the article.The video of Jessie dancing, I previously linked to on YouTube, has been removed from the internet. This is likely linked to cable networks now showing Soul Train episodes. If anyone finds an online link to watch the video please provide it in the comments. *Assumes show as a live broadcast. Season 13, Episode 27. Related Links:
Soul Train Interview
LT's Jazzy Radio Loft and Lounge
The Internet Movie Database
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Study Perspectives: Esperanza Spalding, Spirit Motion & Intended Greatness Context And So Continues The Meaning Of Life & Existence (Part 6)Whatever change you seek or hope for, it doesn't matter what that change is. It matters what you put into motion.
Pictures of Jessie Dancing and Article from Soul Train Website.
