What I Learned From Robin Williams
I just finished watching Robin Williams Remembered - A Pioneers of Television Special (PBS). After watching this wonderful PBS special, not only do I miss him more than before, but I feel I have learned new things about him that might help me and, hopefully, you as well. What new things did I learn from Robin Williams? Here they are:
When you have talents that you are keenly aware of, be open to improving your craft by watching, listening and asking for help from others. Robin did this best with his friends whom he looked up to; guys like Richard Pryor and his mentor, Jonathan Winters.
Don't be afraid to fail. Most of us only remember him for his successes, his award-winning performances on television, stand-up comedy and film. What we don't remember is that he failed from time to time. Mork & Mindy was cancelled after only its fourth season. The movie Popeye bombed at the box office. Not all of his stand up nights were a success.
He listened and was open to taking direction from trusted friends and colleagues. Of his Oscar-winning performance in Good Will Hunting, he spoke of doubting himself after shooting a scene and wondering if he was getting it right. Robin said of Director Gus Van Sant, "With Gus Van Sant in Good Will Hunting, ... at the end he said, 'Just have the conversation. Just talk.' So you're not acting per se, but, eventually, things start to happen."
He went with what felt right, what was true to himself, and let it come together if, and when, it was supposed to come together. He hadn't know if it would all come together. But eventually, he found a way to combine his genius in stand-up comedy, serious Juilliard-trained method acting, and film roles into a unique style that set him apart from all others.
I am a bit weird. I have talents that are not conventional or normal. I love listening to people's stories, I immediately have questions pop into my mind that encourage more of their story to reveal itself, and I continue to want to know more with sincere interest and genuine curiosity. That's what happens in my mind. I can't begin to wonder what happened in Robin Williams' mind, but I know it was strange to most people. From his example, however, I have learned to continue to believe in what I do, and, hopefully, one day soon, the talents will be recognized and appreciated by a larger audience.
"You'll have bad times, but it'll always wake you up to the good times you weren't paying attention to." - from Good Will Hunting
Thank you, Robin Williams, for teaching me these valuable lessons. May you rest in peace. I miss you!
Robin-Williams-Quotes-Good-Will-Hunting-1