It’s a heavy moment for all of us, one none of us expected to face. The loss of Malcolm Jamal Warner, a beloved friend, artist, and cultural icon, has left a void in our hearts and our community. I want to share with you not just the grief we are experiencing, but the love, the lessons, and the healing that come with it. On Instagram Live, I reflected on my personal journey with Malcolm through a discussion with my dear friend Dr. Ed Garnes. We discussed the broader lessons we can all take away during times of loss.
Remembering a Brother and a Friend
Malcolm and my brother were inseparable since they were kids, both part of an acting troupe in Los Angeles called the Inglewood Playhouse. Our families were intertwined, sharing the struggles and joys of growing up with single mothers who worked hard to support us.
Malcolm wasn’t just a star on screen or stage; he was family. Over 40 years, I witnessed his growth from a young boy in an acting troupe to the man we all admired. His humility, his dedication to craft, and his genuine spirit made him more than a celebrity.
Dealing With Unexpected Loss and the Weight of Grief
When the news of Malcolm’s passing reached us, it felt like the rug was pulled out from under our feet. Grief hit hard and fast, a wave that left many of us struggling to find footing. As Dr. Ed Garnes, a therapist with 25 years of experience, reminded us, it’s okay to feel messed up in moments like these. Even those trained to heal are not immune to the rawness of loss.
"I expect us to be messed up in this moment. So I think the first thing that we have to do is just honor however we feel."
- Dr. Ed Garnes
Grief manifests in many ways, and all of these feelings are valid. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is allow ourselves space to just be, to sit with our emotions without rushing toward resolution.
Where do we go from here? The healing journey is neither linear nor swift. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. We have to honor our feelings, whatever they may be, and recognize that healing takes time and patience.
Malcolm Jamal Warner’s passing is a profound loss, but it also reminds us of the power of love, community, and intentional living. He was a beacon of humility and cultural pride. As we grieve, let us also celebrate his legacy and the lessons he leaves behind.
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