In memory of Robin Williams

Robin Williams has left a lasting impact on many, and the sudden news of his death shocked an entire nation. But where many were to focus on the importance of his work and the legacy that he left behind, others dwell on the way in which he died, making rude remarks on a subject not to be taken lightly.

Williams was a comedian who played roles that were rather serious and full of substance. He has become an inspiration to thousands. Because of the status he upheld, we to forget that he was human, with difficulties like us. We tend to revere those who appear on movie screens and worship them.

His success didn’t stop when it came to the big screen, but off as well. He was a humanitarian; he liked helping people and making a connection with his audience. His role as the famous Genie in Aladdin is one that will stay with us forever. He stole the show with his unscripted jokes and funny antics. Williams stole the hearts of his fans.

It takes the death of a person, such as Williams’, to sit back and ponder about suicide and mental illness. No one can say what Williams was contemplating when he decided to commit suicide. All we can do is be there for those who need the help and support them, not to shame them. It can be easier in their state of mind to go through with suicide than ask for help.

Williams suffered from depression and addiction for years and recently had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking and difficulty with walking, movement and coordination. There are times when the disease wins, and it was the case for Williams. Through his career we saw a different side of Williams, a side that to him might have been just another role to play. But it was a role we all loved, he brought smiles and laughter, and his roles have each left us inspired.

It is difficult to accept that anyone can take their own life, but it makes it harder when it was a person who we revered and only saw one side of them. It’s difficult to say why he decided to end his life.

All we can do is appreciate the work he had done through his acting and humanitarian ways. We can thank him for the countless times he had made us laugh or cried or the times he scared us and made us think hard and carefully about ourselves. Williams has left so much behind that it will be difficult to realize that he is gone, though it will be a whole new different world without him.

Williams’ death has led us to appreciate the people in our lives and in his memory we should extend a helping hand. Yes Williams’ death could have been prevented, but there are times when even if there is help, one can’t help. Instead of dwelling on what could have been and in how we could have done to help we should focus on his legacy. The Robin Williams we came to love, the man who always made people laugh. To remember him through his movies, and the ones yet to come as well as helping those who suffer just like him.