I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Robin Williams. I actually burst into tears because it is such a sad thing and it's like losing a dear friend. I felt like someone had sucked the wind out of my sails. I remember watching him on Mork and Mindy when I was a kid and I loved him because he was so funny and charming. I loved his films. Dead Poets Society was such a favorite of mine that I watched it many times. I loved him in Hook and thought he was brilliant in Good Will Hunting. I was happy to see him on The Crazy Ones and he made me laugh with all his antics.
It is heartbreaking to hear that he was struggling with depression. I saw so many comments about how people thought he was fine and doing well. That is how truly isolating and tricky depression can be. You think that the person is fine because they put on a brave and happy face when really inside they are in turmoil. I have struggled with my depression for years and I have heard the, "But you seem fine" comments myself, but I learned that even though I feel alone I am not. Depression lies to you and convinces you that there is no one who can help you. It's not true. I wish that Robin Williams had believed that because we have lost an amazing soul.
My heart goes out to his family in this difficult time. It is never easy to lose a loved one. Thank you, Robin Williams for all the laughter you gave us. I hope you found some peace.
You are not alone - I, too, have struggled with depression for many years. The one good thing to come out of this heartbreaking event is that so many people are finally talking about depression, how real it is, how one cannot just "get over it," and how dangerous it can be. I read on CNN the other day that Robin Williams had just been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease - perhaps that contributed to his choice. Not that it makes his manner of death any less heartbreaking. It's surprising how many of the most successful, talented, and intelligent individuals (like you and me) struggle with depression. Maybe now people will realize that it is not something we have a choice about or control over. Thanks for writing this. I know I need to write something about it, too.
ReplyDeleteI don't know how I missed this comment, (have to go back and tweak the settings again), but I see it now and I say thank you. I agree, it does need to be talked about more openly and the more it does, the more people will be educated about mental illness and can understand how they can help those who suffer from it. I had heard about the Parkinson's and it really saddened me to hear about it. My hope is that there will come day when we can talk openly and honestly about depression and mental illness without the stigma and without the fear of being judged for it.
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