“That you are here – that life exists, and identity; that the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse. That the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse. What will your verse be?” – Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society
Having grown up in San Francisco in the 90s, I was always proud of the fact that Robin Williams—the Genie, the dude from Jumanji, Peter Pan, Mrs. Doubtfire, the scientist from Flubber… all these wonderful characters from my childhood— was a co-resident of my already beloved city. I remember for Halloween, some of the kids from my school would trick-or-treat in the area where he lived. He gave one of them a toothbrush once. Typical.
When the news first came out about his passing, I almost couldn’t believe that this had happened to one of the most outgoing, and lively people out there, but it is a reminder of the gravity of depression, and how it is truly a battle—even for people who have personalities that could light whole theaters and auditoriums, individuals who have the ability to make millions of people cry with laughter.
Though it is tempting to become fixated on his death, I encourage us to instead focus on his life, and the legacy he left behind. So here is to you neighbor— thank you for the talent and charisma you exuded in your art!