It is truly hard to believe that an entire generation has matured in to adulthood in the time since Jim Henson passed away. Hard to believe, because his creations are just as popular today as when he was alive. The Muppets are thriving and entering a new era that is spearheaded by many in the generation that has grown up without Jim. Not to mention the youngsters Jim himself mentored, Like Kevin Clash(the heart & soul of Elmo) who are holding the reigns to the future.
The truth is, not since Walt Disney has a mans enduring creations so captured our imaginations. So much so, that we feel not just compelled, but almost as if it were our duty to share Henson's work with our children. As if the fun and wisdom of those works were a necessary element of their childhood development. We feel as though our lives would somehow be colder, less important if they hadn't been enriched by Jim Henson. And we don't dare deprive our children of that treasure.
Henson never imagined that he would have the kind of effect on the world that he did. His aspirations were modest. His focus was always on his art and the future of it, rather than the trappings of fame or fortune. His enthusiasm influenced & inspired others. Because of it, The Muppet's, Sesame Street, and Yes even Star Wars, are still around and bear an indelible mark left by him. STAR WARS?!? you ask. Yes, in 1979 George Lucas asked Henson to be Yoda. He declined because of his busy schedule and recommended Frank Oz, saying "You know, Frank's the other half of me." Henson invested his heart, soul, and humor into characters that will surely endure well past our time on the earth, and all of mankind will be better for it. Because of that, Jim Henson will never be forgotten, and never truly die.
-Admiral Duke
1 comment:
2 thumbs up and a wocka wocka!
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