Robin Williams

It's so interesting that my last post (months ago) was about Mrs. Doubtfire.  Our family went through a huge Robin Williams kick the summer of his death.  The news of his suicide affected me deeply.  I have so much love for this man who I have never met.  I don't know him or his family or anything about his life.  But I truly love him.  I don't judge him for taking his own life.  I do NOT believe he will go to hell.  I believe in a loving God who is the only one who knows his situation and circumstances.  And I believe he is in a better place.  I feel deeply for those who knew him personally.  I can only imagine the kind of influence he had on them, when he was such a light and source of good for millions of strangers.  I hope they can find the peace to get through this heartbreaking experience.

If anything, his death has taught me to love deeper, to laugh more often, to play and connect with my children and family members and friends.  And to reach out to those who cross my path.  There are so many who suffer silently.  I want to be more help to them, but those who need the most help don't ask for it.  So that means, we have to treat everyone with care and understanding and empathy.  It's so important that we show love everyday to those we know and those we pass on the street because we need each other. So much more than we realize.

 One of my favorite movies of all time is "What Dreams May Come".  From the first moment I saw it, back in high school, it pierced me.  I love the colors, the depth, the raw emotion, and the powerful love that this family has for one another, specifically the relationship he has with his wife in the story. I haven't had the strength to watch it since his death, because I don't have enough tissues in my house.  But I plan to watch it soon with my children.  I have spent the past few weeks talking to them about depression, about suicide and that having money does NOT bring happiness, although sometimes we think it could solve any problem.  But mostly I've been talking to them about love and hope and laughter.  We need more of it in our lives.  and we need each other.

I believe Robin's spirit is alive and that he is still learning and growing.  I hope he understands the impact he had on millions of people.  I hope he knows that he brought laughter and happiness into my life.. and I am grateful to him for giving me opportunities to connect with my children through his movies and through the conversations we've had since his death.  Robin, I love you and I truly hope you are able to find rest and peace.