Iwas driving home one day in August two years ago when I got a phone call. "Did you hear what happened?" the voice on the other line said. "No, What?" "Robin Williams passed away." I honestly didn't believe it. When I got home I ran over to my computer and sure enough, it was all over the news.
The next few days almost everyone's status was changed to "Carpe Diem" or "Oh Captain my Captain". It was amazing to see how genuine everyone was and how he really moved people. For me, I couldn't hold back tears. Like many my age, I grew up with Robin. When I was very little he was that funny guy that dressed as an old lady in "Mrs. Doubtfire". He was the cartoon genie that had even my parents dying in laughter.
As I got older, Robin William's films continued to be with me. Movies like "Good Morning Vietnam", one of my all time favorites, or "Good Will Hunting" and "The Birdcage" resonated with me. He was one of a kind and his performance often made the film. But, it wasn't until sophomore year of high school where he really came into my life.
"Thank you for choosing “Magic Carpet” for all your travel needs. Don’t stand until the rug has come to a complete stop. Thank you. Goodbye, now. Goodbye. Goodbye. Thank you. Goodbye."-Genie, Aladdin 1992
Sophomore year of high school was particularly difficult for me. I had recently removed myself from what I now realize was an emotionally controlling relationship.The breakup was very messy and took a mental toll on me. I had trouble sleeping and would cry every night. It was then when I discovered "Live on Broadway" one of Robin's many stand up routines.
Bit by bit every night I would watch it. I continued to watch his others routines such as "An Evening with Robin Williams", "Live at the Met", and "Weapons of Self Destruction". I couldn't help but smile while he went on to describe the invention of golf or how he felt bad for Jesus's brother.
"Jesus was an only child, and thank God, because who would want to be Jerry, the brother of Christ?That's a tough gig. I'd imagine he ends up in a bar at the age of 30 going:
"Yeah, I'm Jerry Christ, whoop dee doo. Jesus is a carpenter, I'm a plumber; you do the math! Yeah, I healed someone. Come here Spot, heel! Look at that!"-Live on Broadway 2002
Robin was honest in his routines which were what made them so great. He reminded me that sometimes we don't need to be so serious. Through his many characters and his wise words, I constantly am reminded to enjoy and value the little things.
" Please, don't worry so much. Because in the end, none of us have very long on this Earth. Life is fleeting. And if you're ever distressed, cast your eyes to the summer sky when the stars are strung across the velvety night. And when a shooting star streaks through the blackness, turning night into day... make a wish and think of me. Make your life spectacular. I know I did." -Jack 1996
The great wonder of Robin Williams is that everyone has their own connection and story with him. He wanted to make people laugh and smile. With me, he did both. Robin's energy picked me up at some of my hardest times. Like many, I never met him personally or knew the true Robin Williams. Although, what I did know was his spirit and the impact he had on me.
Robin Williams, you are very missed. Thank you for making me laugh.
