Pray for Will Smith

There are many reasons to pray for Smith. That he believes the highest expression of love is found in an open marriage is one, no doubt, along with the violence he witnessed as a boy. That he spent his entire professional career creating a character to avoid grappling with those emotions—and getting famous as a result—may be the saddest part of his story.

A tragic window into Will Smith’s world was opened Sunday night. The standing ovation he received from his peers only minutes after assaulting a fellow actor speaks volumes about the world he inhabits and embodies.

So if you’re inclined, take a moment and pray for Will Smith. The world props up false idols with joy. And tears them down with greater joy.

Here’s hoping Smith isn’t one more casualty on fame’s dark road. Let’s pray he recovers from this episode a wiser, humbler man. With better people around him to face his old and new struggles.