Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 6:23 am GMT
Comedian Rickey Smiley is taking to the stage not just to make people laugh, but to share a deeply personal journey through grief and healing in his new memoir, *Sideshow*. The book is a poignant reflection on the losses he has faced, including the devastating death of his son, Brandon. His conversations around this topic aim to resonate with others who are also grappling with loss.
Exploring Grief Through Humor
During a recent appearance on *Get Up Mornings*, Smiley explained the inspiration behind the title *Sideshow*. He conveyed that the essence of the book revolves around “living with loss and moving forward with faith.” The comedian expressed how difficult it is for entertainers to project happiness while coping with personal pain. “As comics, we go through stuff, but our job is to go on stage and make people laugh… even when you’re dying on the inside,” he shared.
This struggle, he notes, is akin to a carnival sideshow—an outward display of performance overshadowed by inner turmoil. The notion is echoed in his reference to the song “Let the Sideshow Begin,” which underscores the challenges of life and the act of persevering despite hardships.
Healing Through Writing
The grief that Smiley writes about is not just a distant memory; it is a daily reality that he has had to confront. Following the loss of his son, he described writing *Sideshow* as both a therapeutic experience and an emotional trial. “It was therapy. It was draining… you work on it all day and then you cry that night,” he reminisced.
His narrative encompasses the death of both his father and his son, detailing the overwhelming weight of grief. Despite the heaviness of these experiences, Smiley emphasizes that his faith has remained a source of strength during his darkest moments. “I had nobody else to lean on but God… both feet were off the ground,” he reflected, illustrating his reliance on spirituality to navigate through the pain.
Rickey Smiley holding his book *Sideshow*.
A Family Affected by Loss
Smiley’s grief has rippled beyond himself, affecting his entire family. He conveyed the necessity of protecting his loved ones throughout this challenging time, particularly focusing on his mother, other children, and granddaughter. “I became my grandfather,” he mentioned, recalling the resilience he observed in his own grandfather during family tragedies.
The memoir not only addresses personal grief but also reflects a desire to support others who are experiencing similar feelings. Smiley’s aim is to provide comfort and insight into navigating loss, making *Sideshow* a potential resource for many.
Looking Ahead: Release and Impact
Described as a “page-turner” and “scripture-based,” *Sideshow* is positioned to be a source of healing for readers. “If you’ve suffered a loss, this book is going to help you,” Smiley assured. He hopes that through sharing his story, readers can gain a renewed perspective on life and foster gratitude amid their struggles.
Pre-orders for *Sideshow* are currently available, with the audio version set to be released on September 17th. The book is poised to reach a wide audience, echoing Smiley’s message of faith and resilience in the face of loss.
For more information on the book, visit the official website.
Final Thoughts on Grief and Healing
Rickey Smiley’s journey with his book *Sideshow* is sure to touch many hearts. He shares his thoughts on grief, faith, and family, helping us understand how to deal with loss while finding the strength to move forward. As he travels around the country to promote his book, Smiley wants to do more than just entertain; he wants to inspire people who are on their own healing journeys. With his honest stories, he hopes to remind everyone that they are not alone in their struggles with grief.
