Robin Williams passed away yesterday at the
age of 63.
It’s sad news that shocked the world and
people are coping with it in different ways.
I find grieving to be an interesting experience
because it’s one thing that while done in
groups, is very personalized and individual.
While we share stories and thoughts on Robin
Williams, we all listen through our own filter
and put these anecdotes and thoughts into
our own version of the man.
But one thing remains almost universally clear.
Robin Williams was bigger than himself.
Robin Williams is more than the life and the
body that he lived in.
And I don’t want to lose sight of that.
While the terrible disease of depression took
his body from us, his energy will live on
for much longer.
Robin Williams is the laughter and the smiles
he gave and will continue to give to audiences
past, present, and future.
Robin was different, distinct, and while there
will never be another Robin Williams, there
are others of his same breed; comedians and
actors out there that embody his spirit.
And it is through them and their audiences
that he will live on.
So, in honor of Robin Williams, go see an
improve show, go see some stand up.
Laugh.
Allow your weird to shine through.
I’m going to remember his life’s work,
I’m going to remember the man who was given
the part of Mork because when he was offered
a seat, he sat in the chair upside down on
his head.
The man who stood on a desk to see the world
from a different point of view, and never
truly came down from it.
The man who gave his voice to the Genie from
Aladdin so entirely that there are still hours
of unreleased takes that Disney couldn’t
use.
That mind, that energy, that being.
That’s who I will remember.
In honor of Robin and the terrible disease
that is depression that took him, I’m donating
the price of four movie tickets that I wish
I would be paying to see Robin in to The American
Foundation For Suicide Prevention, a charity
that provides assistance to those dealing
with depression, but also is conducting research
on how to prevent it both nationally and internationally.
I did some research on CharityNavigator.com
and this charity has an accountability and
transparency score of 100 out of 100.
And if you want to donate the price of a movie
ticket, I’ve included a link in the video
description below.
Depression is a disease with a taboo unlike
any other and can be very silent to those
around it.
And as always, if you’re dealing with depression,
you can and should reach out, but I know it’s
not always that easy.
Let me know your favorite Robin Williams story
or moment in the comments below.
I want to hear and remember what he was with
you.
Take your time to be sad at his passing.
But don’t forget to come out of that and
be joyous at what was and still is Robin Williams.
You’re right Robin.
We ain’t never had a friend like you.
