I was fortunate to attend the Toronto Public Library Foundation's Book Lover's Ball on February 12, which was great fun and a memorable occasion. The Ball is an annual event for library supporters including many of Toronto's philanthropic and political leaders as well as 56 of Canada's outstanding authors. Writers attending included Margaret Atwood, Alissa York, Joy Fielding, M.G. Vassanji, Paul Quarrington, Russell Smith, Vincent Lam, Wayson Choy, Debbie Travis, Ian Brown, Dan Hill, Jan Wong and Christie Blatchford, among many more.
My highlight, however, was realizing that former Prime Minister Paul Martin was there (having recently released his memoir Hell or High Water). I noticed him upon arriving at Toronto's renowned Royal York Hotel as he mingled with guests.
At that moment I knew I must meet him. While dinner and speeches ensued, it was in the back of my mind that I would make my way to his table to say hello.
That amid the flurry of mingling and events onstage - including a live auction and fashion show as well as a video tribute by Rick Mercer and wonderful MC duties performed by CBC's Diana Swain. It was all very exciting - especially to see so many celebrities as well as my TPL colleagues all dressed up for the black tie affair. (And yes I found myself in a 'gown' for the Ball which was a surprise - to me most of all! Sorry though no pics to be found... :)
Suddenly, Mr. Martin was approaching me. Even if I'd wanted to, I couldn't have avoided meeting him. What an opportunity!
I realized he was saying his goodbyes and so I waited patiently for him to arrive at my spot. At which time I said hello and shook his hand. Then I said that I just wanted to thank him for all he's done for Canada. He said thanks very much and that I was "very kind." To which I added "I also want to thank you for coming tonight as we at the library really appreciate it." He smiled and held onto my hand a few seconds longer and then we said goodnight.
It happened very quickly and then it was over. And yet it was such a meaningful encounter for me. I believe he's a man of integrity and grace and we would have been in a much better place if he was our PM now. At any rate, I also believe events happen for a reason and he has gone on to do some important work both in Canada and internationally.
Funny enough I just saw an interview with him on TVO's The Agenda this evening which reminded me to tell you about this meeting.
Oh yes and I also bumped into (literally) Stuart Mclean as I arrived, and had a quick and friendly exchange with Giller recipient Joseph Boyden - both which were almost as thrilling!
Hats off to the Toronto Public Library Foundation - especially Julie and Heather - for a wonderful and successful event.
Photo: Toronto Public Library Foundation
5 comments:
Very cool....even though it would have been a much better story if accompanied by photos of you in the gown.
I meet chretin (sp) twice, both times when I was hanging back in the crowd. In hindsight I think he probably looked for the wallflowers and made a point of saying hi.
Also, can't get the idea of you hanging out at home, doing chores, while in your ball gown.
xo,
M
Good for you! I always liked Paul Martin too. Shame about his supporting cast.
Wow....you get to hobnob with some pretty cool people....are they ever lucky!
I clicked on your blog from your Twitter account... I think I'm starting to get the hang of it, though I still don't really get it.
Anyhow, this is a great post. Have a fun weekend :-)
Did I tell you that my partner - we were selling raffle tickets - literally approached him the second he showed up and sold a ticket to him? :-) I agree - it was an amazing event.
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