Part of what makes alcoholism such a brother- (and sister-) hood, at least the recovering types, is an emotional bond. (Read Buzz Aldrin's comments on Williams.)

Williams clearly understood the Four Horsemen of "terror, bewilderment, frustration and despair". We've shared "pitiful and incomprehensible demoralization".

Everyone of us. We also know that each of is has lied, stolen and cheated.

We also know that most of the world will never understand, and don't expect them to. Why should they? It's our job to understand them, after all. But we have seen the world become more aware, more accepting of our illness. Many don't blame us for being alcoholic, after all we aren't responsible for that. What we are responsible for is what we do about it. Alcoholism is no excuse for anything. I wish he world understood that, too, and held us more accountable for what we do. There are despicable bastards who use the "I was drunk" excuse with some effect, and it's in no way an excuse.

Anyway, when it gets too bad some people are left with two choices - relapse or suicide. I wish to God they chose relapse.

Mr. Williams, you can finally rest. No more expectations, no more fear of failure, no more feeling unworthy. That depression, too, was in your genes.

Thanks for making my life a little lighter from time to time. I wish I could have returned the favor.