Mork describing the feelings of loneliness goes viral

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Tuesday, August 12, 2014
(ABC)
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In the wake of the apparent suicide of Robin Williams, fans across the world are stunned and heartbroken as they reminisce the beloved actor's most iconic performances. From the show that first made him a household name, a sensitive scene from Mork of Mork & Mindy has gone viral as Mork talks about loneliness.

The clip below beings where Mork's conversation starts, at 22:50.

When speaking to his unseen supervisor, Orson--who had sent Mork to Earth to observe and report on human behavior--Mork describes the disease he's encountered called loneliness.

"Loneliness is a disease of the spirit, and people who have it think that no one cares about them," says Mork.

"When children are young, they're told not to talk to strangers. Then when they go to school, they're told not to talk to the person next to them. And finally when they get to very old, they're told not to talk themselves. Who's left?

"They make themselves lonely. They're so busy looking out for number one, they don't have room for two."

After hearing of this terrible condition, Orson says, "It's too bad everybody down there can't get together and find a cure."

Mork responds, "Well here's the paradox, sir. Because if they did get together, they wouldn't need one. Isn't that zen-like?"

If you are or know somebody who is having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

How would you describe loneliness to someone who has never felt it? Let us know in the comments below.