You know, back in 1999 I actually started writing a book about my experiences at The Shopping Channel. I’m at about 30 pages so far, but it’s only been 9 years…… 

Earlier this month I launched a Sterling Diamonelle Today’s Showstopper with an on-air guest, Lesley Young. She is a jewellery specialist who appears several times a month for different jewellery lines and has done so for probably 10 years or more. I am mentioning this today because I am particularly proud of my friend Lesley after this recent experience I had with her.

As I am walking towards the jewellery set at 11:59pm, after having just finished an electronics show and grabbing a quick swig of my water bottle from on top of the Associate Producer’s desk, Lesley calls to me while looking at me with a somewhat tired, sad look on her face. She has been crying. This is not the normal greeting from Lesley, who is usually smiling with excitement in her voice and chomping at the bit to begin her show. She asks me if I have been reading the papers about “the boys” up north. I had no idea what she was talking about. 30 seconds to air-time, they tell me in my ear. Lesley quickly informs myself and Charlotte, who was modelling the jewellery that hour, that a very close friend of hers lost his 20-year old son in a terrible car accident in cottage country involving 4 young adults in a car that lost control, veered off the road and landed upside down in the water. As a parent, I can’t even imagine the shock. 10 seconds to air-time. I simply said to Lesley that I was terribly sorry and that sometimes work is the best distraction. 5, 4, 3, 2, 1……’you’re up Norm’. “JUST FOR YOU, THE SHOPPING CHANNEL BRINGS YOU TODAY’S SHOWSTOPPER………!!! And away we went, full of excitement and enthusiasm for the Diamonelle simulated diamond necklace, bracelet and earrings deal.

Lesley was informative and energetic for the entire show, even though I could clearly tell that her heart was not in to being “on” today. There have been many moments for all of us on the air when we have had personal tragedy or just angst going on in our lives and being cheerful is not an option we would ordinarily entertain. Les is a pro. And, she’s my friend. The show was a success, and it’s because of her.

Have a great day and make it count…

Regards,

Norm Murray