The news of Robin Williams’ death hit me hard. I just couldn’t believe that a talent like his was lost to the world forever; I couldn’t believe he was actually gone. It was the day before my son’s first birthday and it felt like losing a loved one. He was a brilliant man with a singular gift for making all of us feel like he was a close friend, not just another face on a screen.
It’s been more than a year now and every time I see his name on Facebook or in the news for whatever reason, more than anything I wish he were still here, still making us smile. Like many of you, I grew up on his films. He’s known best for his comedies, but my favorites have always been the ones with more dramatic roles, from which there are lots to choose: What Dreams May Come, Bicentennial Man, and Hook top the list for me.
I’m sure, then, you’ll understand what a treat it was to come across this tribute to him. I couldn’t help but share it with all of you. It covers the spectrum of his vast career and leaves you wanting more—leaves you wishing more could be possible.
(Take note: Not all of Robin’s films were kid-friendly. As such, there are a few shots in this video that are unsuitable for little eyes and little ears.)
Is it possible to watch that and not be uplifted? I’d love to learn more about KatrinDepp (the talented creator of the video) because she did a brilliant job. And in case you missed it, the song that closes the video will leave you breathless. I’ll share the lyrics here for you (and hopefully you’ll take the chance to watch and listen again):
Saturn by Sleeping At Last
You taught me the courage of stars before you left.
How light carries on endlessly, even after death.
With shortness of breath, you explained the infinite.
How rare and beautiful it is to even exist.I couldn’t help but ask
For you to say it all again.
I tried to write it down
But I could never find a pen.
I’d give anything to hear
You say it one more time,
That the universe was made
Just to be seen by my eyes.With shortness of breath, I’ll explain the infinite
How rare and beautiful it truly is that we exist.
Please tell me I’m not the only one feeling chills.
This talented man died way too young, but he left the legacy behind of being a phenomenal human being. He is someone I aspire to be like. His name will be spoken in my home. He will not be forgotten.
I’m no authority on the man, but if there were one thing I could tell you that I’m certain Robin would want all of us to hear, it would be this: live your life while there’s still life to live. Don’t wait to be the person you’ve always dreamed of being. If you wish to do good in the world, do it. If you wish to have joy in your life, find it—nay, make it. If some days are just too hard and too painful for you to cope with, that’s okay, too. At the end of the day we are, each of us, merely doing the best we can with what we have to work with, and that’s all that anyone could ever ask of us.
Remember: “How rare and beautiful it is to even exist.”
I’ll leave you with the words from the title character of his film Jack:
“…if you’re ever distressed, cast your eyes to the summer sky… make a wish, think of me. Make your life spectacular. I know I did.”
Be good to yourself.
Simply Brightside 