REMEMBERING ROBIN: Part 1
"I heard a joke once:
Man goes to doctor, says he's depressed...
says life is hard and cruel.
He says he's feeling all alone in a threatening world"...
"Doctor says: Treatment is simple....The great clown Pagliacci is in town tonight...Go and see him...That should pick you up!"
The man bursts into tears............................and says:
"But, Doctor...I AM PAGLICACCI!!
For so many people around the world, it seems like only yesterday that we lost a man who was like a best friend. He could make us laugh, even when we were down. He could inspire us in countless ways as he fascinated us with his chameleon like capability to "become" any role he portrayed.
We were stunned. We were heartbroken. We were confused.
In the days that followed, although we learned that Robin had been suffering from Depression and was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, it all still seemed unbelievable.
As I always try to do, I looked for a photo to inspire a tribute portrait. What I discovered was shocking. Why did I not see it before?
Rifling through, viewing countless photos on a google search, I noticed that most of the photos of Robin had one common denominator: There was PAIN IN HIS EYES in almost every photo!
Why had I not noticed this before?
How often had I watched this man perform, bringing the joy of laughter to my heart, not realizing how much he was truly struggling?
Robin's moves were as awesome as his voices. His manic-like performances, seemless, unexpected, impromtu, original and will always be unforgettable.
Friends seemed to abound in stepping up to share their fondest memories of Robin, on every media source available. I'm sure I was not the only one wondering "where were they?". How did they NOT KNOW that he was suffering so much?
Depression is a very serious illness; one that all of us should aspire to learn more about; to understand more about the symtoms and treatments available.
Moreover? Every single person reading this post must admit it....social media and a quick howdy do tweet are not acceptable substitutes for real communication with our friends. It is far to easy to mask depression and suicidal tendencies by simply sharing something quirkly on a feed.
I have only one personal recommendation: Let us each take time today to create a "buddy system". Pick up that phone and call someone that you trust implicitly.
Create a mutual pledge, promise to each other that if either ever feels so down that he or she is considering suicide, the other will be available day or night to be there for them.
Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Manic Depression need not be a mystery.
Resources abound to learn more about this disease. Make time to learn, to understand, and certainly...ASK FOR HELP.
Robin left us one precious gift. He inspired us to learn more and to reach out and touch others who may be suffering right this very moment.
Thank YOU Robin!
