Words cannot adequately express how I feel with the news of Robin Williams' passing. At just 63 years of age, Robin reportedly succumbed to the demons he fought so valiantly for most of his life. Depression is a very real disease that comes on strong and suddenly no matter how life is going for the person muddling through. It is a silent killer that often goes unnoticed by those surrounding the victim. It's stigmatized, far too often we just tell the person to get over it - to stop being so dramatic - to deal with it.
I can be laughing on the outside, but crying on the inside. Robin Williams personified that struggle daily. His struggles have been well documented through the years, though it wasn't until more recent memory that we found out that he wasn't just a party animal in search of the next great high - more like he was self medicating to deal with the demons of his depression.
Still, through it all, Williams was able to produce an impressive body of work. Though he is most known as a funny man, starring in roles such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Mork, and the Genie in Aladdin, he stood out as being a very gifted dramatic actor. He played in iconic roles like Dr. Sean Maguire in Good Will Hunting, Peter Pan in Hook, and the beloved Mr. Keating in Dead Poet's Society. He would be nominated for many awards, and would win the Oscar for best supporting actor for his turn in Good Will Hunting.
At the time of his death, he had several movies in post production, the most recognizable being the second Night at the Museum sequel where he once again dons the role of President Teddy Roosevelt. I wasn't planning on seeing the movie until it hit Netflix, but I just might have to change that decision.
Thank you for the laughter through your own pain and tears, Robin. I pray that you are now at peace.
