More than an act for 15 minutes of fame.

I, with millions of people, first saw Tiny Tim on TV in the late '60s. With millions of people, my opinions formed that night were of somebody with an 'act', albeit original, to acquire their 15 minutes of fame. Soon I began to see more of the depth and richness he had to offer. Much later, I realized the value of the unique gift he freely gave to everyone. Now he is gone, and the fullness of that gift is just now being realized. Can we remove the triteness from this and say with new feeling that "The world is a much better place for having had Tiny Tim in it?" It is unusual that it has taken me so long to realize this. My wife and I studied singing and have specialized in performing 'old songs' for years. Of course, what we have tried was 'serious', not like anything Tiny Tim would do. That was my big mistake. He specialized in spreading happiness, and the song and humor were just the vehicles (now he WAS serious about THAT). It has taken me over 30 years to realize this. I'm just glad I DID learn it. Somebody suggested doing a "Crumb" - style documentary on Tiny Tim. I hope that it happens, because of those millions of people, there are many that would appreciate seeing what we DIDN'T know about Tiny Tim. The historical significance of his keeping 'old' songs alive. His dedication. The variety of his interpretations. If this happens it will be better than "Crumb" because, in spite of the sorrows, the central theme will have to be about spreading happiness.

R.W.S