In Memoriam - Robin Williams (1951-2014)

Written by John Edward Betancourt

If there is something we really haven't done here at Girls of Geek, it is take the time to say goodbye to people that have passed on from the world in the entertainment business.  It's not out of a lack of respect, it is more out of the fact that we let their work speak for their career and their life.  The beloved live on forever in home video and will always bring us fond memories when we pop in that movie or show.  

But something different happened yesterday. Yesterday came a death that quite frankly, left me devastated and it was one that needed to be discussed, because Robin Williams and his untimely passing has left everyone shocked.

It was social media that broke the news for me first and it made for a terrible drive home. There were tears in my eyes, because Robin Williams was more than just a funny dude who always made us laugh...he was a massive part of my childhood, a fixture in my home.  From Popeye to Mrs. Doubtfire I consistently remember everyone in my family enjoying his work.  

He was one of the rare actors who completely disappeared into the role.  Sure you know he was going to be in a movie or a television show, but once the story got underway, that was it.  He became Peter Pan, or Sy Parrish or Garp.  It was simply incredible to watch and quite frankly, the man deserved more than one Academy Award.  But what always impressed me more is that the man was inspiration personified.  

He was always a reminder that we should enjoy life as much as possible and always find humor in the little things. That kind of mindset would keep everyone young at heart, force us to look at the world in wonder and keep us smiling day in and day out.  But it was the darker side of his life that inspired more.  His battle with depression and drugs and alcohol was a reminder that life was always going to be a fight.  There were always going to be challenges and guess what...you could battle them and do amazing things.  

Yet even in death, he inspires.  His struggle is a reminder to all, that sometimes we need help. That it is okay to reach out for help, it won't make us weak, it just means we couldn't figure it out on our own.  Regardless, this is a tough one to bear, because the world just became a darker place without a man who brought incredible joy to so many of us.  Rest in peace Robin Williams, you will certainly be missed. 

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