-Pavel Barber: For those of you who were fans of Robin Williams, you were both saddened and shocked when you heard the news. I want to take this time to address the issue of depression, because I have had close friends and family members battle it. I have come to realize just how serious the mental illness is, and why it is such an issue. Personally - when I have an issue in my life, I hide it the best I can. I do that because I want to appear stronger than I actually am, and I dont want to burden other people with my issues. I never want to be the sensitive one or the needy one. However, there is a big problem with that - by being afraid of opening up to others, I face everything alone and bottle everything up. I dont express my emotions...I stop them and deny them. Emotions arent meant to be kept inside - they are meant to be felt and expressed. The biggest problem in this world I see today is judgement. When we judge other people, even for the smallest things, it makes them feel less and less comfortable with opening up to others. Why would someone open up to someone who judges them when they are in a vulnerable part of their lives? My challenge to all of you - START FEELING and STOP JUDGING. No one knows what your life is about and what you have gone through. When you stop judging people, something amazing happens - you begin to get the best out of people...as they are more comfortable to open up and show their true selves. This is something I am working on, and I owe a lot of thanks to my sister Lindsay for being my #1 person to go to. She accepts and doesnt judge...its so refreshing and I love you to death for that. We can make this world a beautiful and happy place to live in. But it starts with you. Make a difference every day. Be there for those you love, and dont be afraid to reach out to those who love you. My doors are always open. If you ever have a NON- HOCKEY related personal issue, you are strongly encouraged to talk to me. I love helping people through things, as I know just how tough these illnesses can be. Start feeling, and start growing. -Pav.
Posted on: Thu, 14 Aug 2014 10:17:22 +0000