The children's television show 'Sesame Street' is peopled in part by Muppets. Oscar the Grouch, Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and Elmo are all puppets, manipulated by human hands and speaking with human voices. They have been regulars on Sesame Street for decades, and have also starred in very popular Muppet movies. They have adventures. Sometimes they teach their very youngest viewers to count and spell and get along and how to deal with various temptations. Most of all, they are friendly and likable.

The original creator of the Muppets was Jim Henson, and he also was the voice for several of the characters. There was much grief when he died at an early age. His characters have lived on, and those actors who replaced him have done a fine job. It would have been fascinating, though, to visit with Mr. Henson, to hear his voice and get to know the man who put so much faith, energy, and tenderness into his innocent Muppet world. The Muppets offered a haven that one without worry could let their little kids wander, and at the same time could strike a chord that amused the grownups.