Grief Comes in Waves

Grief is such a universal experience. It's a process, a journey through the dark night of the soul, through the valley of the shadow of death. Knowing the elements of grief empowers us for the journey.

Another Tragic Loss. Nanu Nanu.

Like the rest of the world today, I am still stunned and deeply saddened by the death of comedy great, Robin Williams. I met Mr. Williams when I was 8 years old, through our tv set, on the show Mork and Mindy. Like many other tv viewers of that era, it was instant love. His quirky, physical comedy on the show was endearing, other-worldly, yet so easy to relate to. It seems to me that he was my first introduction to comedy that I could relate to as a child. To this day, I still love the type of physical comedy that Robin was known for.

As I grew up, Robin Williams became more famous and successful, he seemed a permanent fixture in my life and in our culture and honestly, I didn't mind. I never realized he was 20 years older than me until yesterday. I always saw him as the big brother type, someone you would love to have in your family. I've heard it expressed by Beatles fans who feel the same way about the Fabs, they just felt like family, the big brothers you always wanted but never had.

Like many of his casual fans, I was not aware of Mr. Williams' struggles with depression and addiction. So many times, a happy face hides many sorrows. I am hopeful that this will raise mental health and suicide awareness in a way like never before. I pray that this senseless death has some positive outcome. Oh please, let there be something good come of it. Let people be more compassionate towards those who are depressed and can't seem to "pull themselves up by their bootstraps".

Thank you Robin Williams for your bright light that you shared for so many years. May we always remember the lessons you taught us. Shine on, lovely soul.

Photo via Sesame Street