by Melissa Cox
He loved to make people laugh.
My belly would hurt from laughing whenever I was around him or talked to him. He had a gift for making people laugh and feel like they were important.
Inside though, he was often in turmoil and struggled with depression.
“I think the saddest people always try their hardest to make people happy because they know what it’s like to feel absolutely worthless and they don’t want anyone else to feel like that,” stated Actor Robin Williams.
He was only a few months younger than me – in his 30s – when my cousin passed away unexpectedly.
He was a treasured person in my life and I was crushed to lose him.
We used to talk about doing stand-up comedy together for as long as I can remember. We would plan out our skit where I would be his sidekick on stage.
My next birthday after losing him, I wanted to hide from my age and the fact that I was getting older. I did not want a big party or to do anything to celebrate.
Then, I started to think about how my cousin would not have the chance to turn another year older. I thought about how the ones who love him would not be able to see him blow out the candles on his special day.
So, I decided to do something we both wanted to conquer – I would stand up on stage and try to make people laugh.
Ever since I was a kid we used humor as a way to communicate and make things brighter. Laughter and sharing humor is good for the heart.
I signed up for open mic night at a Duhb Linn’s in Duluth, Minnesota. Every Friday, they offer “comics” an opportunity to get up on stage.
I invited close family and friends to watch me as I made a dream a reality and faced a fear.
As we turn older we often reflect on the years, our adventures, and the journeys we have experienced. This was a chance to do something I have always talked about, to make the most of the moment, and to bring people together to laugh.
For about eight minutes, I stood on stage and told stories and jokes. I was able to celebrate the humor in turning older by sharing laughter with family and friends.
My cousin reminded me that I can make a difference and inspired me to be better. He reminded me to live.
Know that we can dream, we can imagine, and we can become. I encourage you to stand up for a dream and a purpose.
Range of Character 