(I’m sort of catching up in this thread without reading all of it. Sincere apologies).
I’m sure at some point in our lives, we’ve all heard that everything happens for a reason. What happened in this case might not be any different – at least that’s how I want to believe it. We don’t all have to concur. Now, before anyone distorts my words, I’ll let it be known that I’m on Steve’s side. Even now, after almost a month, it’s difficult for me to not feel upset, depressed, or even confused at least once everyday thinking about it. With that, I find it impossible to rid my mind of such thoughts. I agree with some of you – if there really was any ‘unacceptable business conduct’, why did it persist for so long only to be stopped in its tracks last October?
All debate aside, I need to admit – whatever it is the Muppets do next, I’m not sure how I’ll feel about it. I could be indifferent, or I could become less and less passionate about them down the line (maybe up to a point where I don’t follow them anymore). I’m not saying I’m one of those people who clings to the past and won’t move on, however, it’s already hard for me just to think about the Muppets without Steve. Watching them without him? It’s unimaginable, especially since he’s my favorite performer. The way I see it, in his place there will forever be an emptiness which cannot be filled (or maybe not shall he return, I hope). To those who share the same sentiment, think of a fish being deprived of water. True, he wasn’t with Jim and the rest of the group since the very beginning, but I think they only got better once he stepped in. Perhaps, it may take longer for me to adapt. I don’t even know if/when I’ll be able to. Until then, I’ll continue to look for reassurance in the ‘Muppet Pundit’ blog. Hopefully I can give some back to Steve one day when I comment.
Going back to what I said about things happening for a reason, let me clarify by saying that things can happen for both bad and good reasons. An event that initially seems devastating on one end could have a positive outcome on the other. Have any of you ever considered that in Steve’s case? Neither we nor him may know it yet, but he could be going on to tackle bigger and better things. He’s already made an effort to connect with us via his blog. Let’s hope that, while he continues to spread his word virtually, he resurfaces physically as well. And, as much as I like the Muppets, it doesn’t necessarily have to be through them that he comes back. It’s enough that he comes back in general - be it in a new TV series, a YouTube channel, etc. I’d personally love for him to make appearances here and there again (at workshops and cons) , if it’s possible. If you ask me, he doesn’t even need a reason to make appearances. Anyway, I think what I’m trying to convey is that, while I’m still sad about Steve’s departure, I don’t overlook the potential opportunities that it may have opened up for him. For all we know, it’s a blessing in disguise.
Again, please forgive me for rambling. People who read this, what I want you to take from it is that there may be a desirable end result to come. Provide your mind some consolation, try to relieve it if possible of any tension(s), and remember from time to time that Steve can’t/won’t be gone very long. He just needs time to think things through, so let’s (us loyal fans) help and support him in whatever ways we can. Hope (maybe even pray) that he’s out doing what he does best, what he’s dedicated most of his life to, what we respect and appreciate him for, once again in the near future. All the best for a puppeteer, an artist, an inspirational being, and a friend.
*Quick, slightly irrelevant, and weird comment: Within the first two weeks of the ‘firing’ news breaking, there was a ‘war of words’ (mostly from one side) – the various accusations, harsh statements, and other stuff. I have to say, though I don’t know from first-hand experience, it felt like I was in a sense in the middle of a “lion vs. hyena” conflict. I’m sure Disney isn’t unfamiliar with that…well, that was more so “lion vs. lion”, but hopefully, you understand what I’m referring to. Nonetheless, countless thanks for your time and attention.
Peace.
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