I usually live under a rock.

I mean, in the months that I was taking care of my Dad and since he’s been gone, I barely watch the news and I don’t keep up to date on current events. When I do watch tv or Netflix, it’s 99% on the weather network or Hallmark-type drivel as background noise.

Right now, I am perfectly happy being “Ignorant” with a capital “I”.

But, I did hear the sad news the other day about that celebrity who passed – the one who always appeared to be super happy, funny and light-hearted…When a friend texted me about it, I immediately thought it was a social media hoax because it sounded totally crazy.

But it wasn’t.

It is a sad reminder that looks can be deceiving.

…That you can never really know what someone is struggling with on the inside or the feelings of despair that overwhelms their soul.

…The despair that may be invisible to those in their closest of circles.

…The “playing happy” that has gone on so long that it has become second nature until you don’t have the energy to do it for one more day.

I have no clue about that celebrity’s life and situation but what I do know is that whenever I ask someone, “How are you?” and they are comfortable enough with me to say, “Not good”, I am prepared to stop and listen.

You never know how genuinely lending your ear to someone could affect a person’s day, hopefully for the better.