Robin Williams: Death of a Legend

I would have to say that one of the hardest parts of getting older is watching the people you grew up with, and loved so dearly, pass away. We all know people in the media, family members, friends and acquaintances who have left us long before their time. It really makes you appreciate just how fragile we really are.

When I heard the news about Robin Williams yesterday, I couldn’t believe he was gone. I’ve watched him since the days of Mork and Mindy. I’ve seen all the films including Good Morning Vietnam, Mrs. Doubtfire, What Dreams May Come, Good Will Hunting, and the list goes on and on. His stand up comedy was second to none. I mean who can’t remember “Live at the Met”?

Yet here we are, another great actor and star gone long before his time. The most unfortunate part of it all is that he died as the result of a treatable illness. Depression is not a joke. I have personally, as we all have from time to time, experienced sadness. I can only imagine though how empty you must feel, how deep a hole you must find yourself in, when you are gripped by depression.

When I say “I can only imagine”, I mean it. I have no idea how it must feel to be in such a dark place.

I work in heathcare, and I see numerous patients come and go who are suffering from depression. How do we prevent such a tragedy as suicide you might ask? I really don’t have a good answer. All I can say is this, if you are feeling down or low, if it is a recurrent feeling, a sinking feeling from which you cannot escape, I urge you to tell someone. Ask for help, see a professional, but DON’T do anything stupid. Someone cares about you despite how alone you might feel. If you know someone who is depressed, talk to them. Try to convince them to see a professional. At least you can say you tried.

This is the sad new reality in the world we live in. We are so many, but many of us feel so alone. Be strong and be there for each other. God bless you Robin Williams, and long may your light shine upon us. I dedicate the following video to you.

Robin Williams: July 21, 1951 – August 11, 2014

RIP