I have a friend who once told me to, “be careful, once you get into this business (the newspaper) it gets into your blood and you don’t get out.” I often remember this and it makes me smile at how true that statement can be.
I really can’t begin to explain the truth to that statement other than to say, “At this point in my life, I do believe this is what I am supposed to be doing.”
During my nine years with the Similkameen Spotlight, I have had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know some absolutely incredible people. Some of these people taught me how to do different aspects of my job, some have became very close friends, and a few, whom have left an incredible mark on my life and in my heart.
The few that I speak of are the individuals who without even knowing, encouraged and inspired me to reach further, believe in myself and to have the courage to achieve any goal I set.
Nelson Lewis was one of these very special people.
I met Nelson when I came to work for the Spotlight in 2003. We became fast friends. He always came into the office with a smile and a joke or funny story to share.
It was always a pleasure to sit and chat with Nelson, and listen to his life experiences.
Here was a man whom had travelled the world, seeing places and having had experiences that many would never have. He was a husband and father, an award winning boxer, an accomplished author, a top notch chef (cooking for presidents, prime ministers and the Queen of England) and boy, was he proud to have cooked for the Queen.
Nelson Lewis was one of the most honest and down-to-earth people I have ever had the pleasure to know.
I remember how much he looked forward to compiling the next “Season to Taste” article as much as those who enjoyed, looked forward to reading it.
Working with Nelson played a huge role in my decision to begin writing. Nelson especially, helped me to overcome fear. He taught me, if writing was something I enjoyed, it was something I could do. He told me, “write what you feel and write what you know—you can’t go wrong with that.”
I have and will always remember those words.
From all of us at the Spotlight, both past and present, it was a pleasure to work with you and to know you Nelson.
Nelson Lewis, July 28, 1934 - April, 17, 2012
Farewell