But since I no longer have anyone around who watches Sesame Street, I didn’t remember until I saw the Google screen showing Big Bird’s legs and feet. Of course, I enjoyed Cookie Monster, Ernie and Bert, and all the others, as well. For many, many years, Sesame Street remained a staple in our house because the show delighted our daughter, Michelle.
Michelle was born microcephalic. At the time of her death (nearly thirteen years ago this month) she remained a devout fan of all things Sesame Street. During my pregnancy, Michelle’s brain didn’t develop at a normal rate, so she remained profoundly handicapped for all of her life. I tell you this not to evoke sympathy, but because she loved Sesame Street and I’ve always been thankful for that show.
During times when she was in the hospital or having difficult days, we could sing a few of those songs and her eyes would sparkle with pleasure—well, maybe not so much when I sang them because I’m notorious for singing off key, but she’d even put up with my warbling when no one else was around. Something about those songs and characters reached her deep inside and provided her with great joy. So at her funeral, we decided the most appropriate song would be “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” sung by Kermit the Frog.
Michelle was born microcephalic. At the time of her death (nearly thirteen years ago this month) she remained a devout fan of all things Sesame Street. During my pregnancy, Michelle’s brain didn’t develop at a normal rate, so she remained profoundly handicapped for all of her life. I tell you this not to evoke sympathy, but because she loved Sesame Street and I’ve always been thankful for that show.
During times when she was in the hospital or having difficult days, we could sing a few of those songs and her eyes would sparkle with pleasure—well, maybe not so much when I sang them because I’m notorious for singing off key, but she’d even put up with my warbling when no one else was around. Something about those songs and characters reached her deep inside and provided her with great joy. So at her funeral, we decided the most appropriate song would be “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” sung by Kermit the Frog.
We used that song for two reasons: Michelle loved Kermit and Miss Piggy the very most, and second, because the words to the song aligned with her life. She was different—and it was difficult ‘being green,’ but she gave such joy to all who knew her and God’s purpose for her live was well-served.
If you’ve never listened to Kermit sing that song, take a minute and really listen.
If you’ve never listened to Kermit sing that song, take a minute and really listen.
May you take joy in the differences God gave you that make you a little ‘green’ in this lifetime. ~Judy
Words and music by Joe Roposo
Sung by Kermit the Frog (Jim Henson)
7 comments:
I love this song ... it was my favorite Kermit moment growing up. And Sesame St. was my favorite show!! didn't know it was being celebrated this week, either :)
With all the daycare kids I've had in my home, I've logged a lot of Sesame Street miles, too. I think you could probably do a whole character building writer's workshop around the Muppets.
"It's Not Easy Being Green" is such a special and fitting tribute for Michelle. And by the way, every song sung with a mother's love is perfect.
What a precious tribute to Michelle who was a precious child of God. Sesame Street has been an inspiration and a comfort for old and young. Not to mention the
good times and hearfelt laughter. Yeah for green and it's not even St. Paddy's Day.
Thanks for your comments, ladies. Glad we all agree that Sesame Street remains one of the really good things that has happened in television!!
Thank you Judith.
Love,
Veronica
Such a sweet post, Judy. I'm sure your Michelle brought so much joy to those around her. ~ Yes, Sesame Street is a classic - - to this day, when my oldest daughter and I see a pigeon, we start singing the Pigeon Song that Bert always sang, LOL!! Hugs, Patti Jo :)
I loved getting to listen to Kermit sing this song once more. Has been a day or two since I had the opportunity to listen. My heart is touches knowing God made us all uniquely....we are't cookie cutter cut-outs of some "perfect" looking person, but rather each with our own quirks that God loves so completely. I believe that the special cherubs like Michelle are here to show us that God's purpose is to show us a glimpse of Him...and I have no doubt in her smile you could see Him. Wow! Thanks so much, Connie Sue
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