Author: Justin Mckibben
It takes a special kind of crazy to change the world of comedy the way that Robin Williams did in his career. His talents went beyond that, with inspirational performances in emotionally charged dramas such as Good Will Hunting or What Dreams May Come delivering graceful wisdom, and even chilled us to the core in thrillers such as One Hour Photo or Insomnia where he stepped outside the genres he was typically found in to terrify us. As one of the most diverse and down-right outrageous actors of our time, he struggled with his own personal demons of addiction, and even though his death has shocked the world, his life inspires us for the ages. Here are just a few of our favorite moments with the hero and comedic legend Robin Williams.
He taught us to stay current…
…or at least to do our best to keep up…
He reminded us the importance of getting chores done, and showed us how to do it with a smile on our face…
…and who DOESN’T know the words.. “Dude looks like a lady…”
We learned the importance of politics…
…and how to be kind to our neighbors.
Robin Williams showed us safety first…
…or maybe this is just too funny NOT to watch!
He tried to show us not to take technology…
…or our jobs…
…or ourselves too seriously!
He taught us to love animals like we do each other…
…and had a passion for laughter that could tickle anyone!
He even gave us ways to laugh through the pain…
…and he reminded us that home and family is where the heart is.
Robin Williams made us unafraid to ask the tough questions…
…or the silly ones…
…because he knew that the answers could change the world.
Robin Williams showed us that our little quirks were not imperfections…
…because we get to choose who sees them, and who we share ourselves with and no matter what happens, there is always something good going on, if we are willing to see it.
Robin Williams reminded us of the beautiful things in life, and that the love those things inspire in all of us are the things we live for…
…and with his love, his passion, and his undeniable laughter…
…Robin Williams taught us all how to fly, and he put magic in our hearts with the magic of his life.
Words are hard to find to express the loss of Robin Williams. From Mork & Mindy, to Dead Poets Society, to Night at the Museum, the life and talent of Robin Williams has captivated and explored all walks of life, and has tugged on our heart-strings in so many ways over the decades. His loving family helped him through his highlights and pit-falls throughout his battle with addiction, and his struggles in recovery, and my prayers go out to them in this time of mourning. Robin Williams was a hero in so many ways, and much will be said and speculated in the near future about the tragic circumstances leading to his death. At age 63 he leaves behind a loving following and a legacy that has impacted countless actors, comedians, artists, children and just about any human being that was blessed to enjoy even one of his many incredible moments. I find myself with not enough good to say about the impact he has had on me, and I can closely relate to the thought of suicide in the face of deep and dark depression. So I guess I’ll end with one thing he said that sticks to me when thinking of recovery, and how the last thing we should do when life hurts us is give up.
“What’s right is what’s left if you do everything else wrong.”
-Robin Williams
July 21 1951- August 11, 2014
Substance abuse and addiction threaten the lives of countless people every day, and it can take us to some of the darkest places in our lives. Sadly, not everyone who suffers survives the disease of addiction. There is help out there, and recovery is absolutely possible, but it takes action. Every day men and women die from substance abuse, addiction, and the mental battles that coexist with this self-inflicted and self-destructive life-style. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, please don’t wait until it’s too late. Call toll-free 1-800-951-6135