Something within Me

Something within Me purveys a unique understanding of what motivates the best among us who gain high elected office. Michael Wilson's frank reflections convey the essence of a life and career that added true value to our country in business, government, and diplomacy - Hon. Hugh D. Segal, Former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Brian Mulroney A respected federal statesman, a titan of Bay Street, and a pioneer in moving Canada's mental health forward, Michael Wilson was a powerful influence for me both in business and in giving back to our communities. His moving memoir offers a deeper look into his life and legacy of service to Canadians everywhere, and renewed inspiration that we can all make a positive difference in the lives of others. - George A. Cope, Former CEO of BCE and Bell Canada In Something within Me, Michael Wilson recalls a remarkable career that spanned the worlds of politics, finance, and diplomacy. In so doing, he demonstrates how public service can be combined with a personal commitment to making the world a better place. Nowhere is this more evident than his support for mental health and research, where his tireless efforts have left an enduring legacy. - Jane Philpott, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Director of the School of Medicine, Queen's University Michael Wilson was a politician, diplomat, investment banker, educator, mental health visionary and advocate, and family man - and he excelled at them all. This book is a personal memoir of one of the greatest Canadians of all time who accomplished so much in so many fields and did it with ethics, integrity, good humour, and humility. - Tony Fell, Former Chairman and CEO of RBC Capital Markets Michael Wilson was a surprising man, almost the definition of The Quiet Canadian. But as this memoir so remarkably makes clear, his passions and sense of duty ran deep. He was the kind of cabinet minister we just don't see anymore: decent, effective, and incapable of grandstanding. Yet he was also a father who transformed a family tragedy into a triumph of sustained love and advocacy which helped to change our attitudes to mental illness. It is good to have this record properly and eloquently told. - John Fraser, Master Emeritus of Massey College and author of The Chinese and Eminent Canadians The country was fortunate when Michael Wilson returned to political life as Canada's Ambassador to the United States during the early years of my government. Mike's commitment to his country and his lifelong quest for mutually beneficial relationships helped restore our most important international partnership. His memoir reminds us that inspiring people to reach their potential was also a hallmark of Mike's accomplishments as a business leader, educational mentor, and advocate for mental health. Something within Me is a candid and compelling look at a transformative time in our country's history and a man who helped make it so. - The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Former Prime Minister of Canada This memoir evokes both the private and the public Michael Wilson, an extraordinary Canadian whose impact across many spheres remains very much alive. It provides us with singular insights into a man defined by an intellectual, ethical, and moral centre, someone who had the stature and conviction to demand bold action from individuals, organizations, provinces, and the entire country. - Catherine Zahn, Ontario Deputy Minister of Health and Former CEO and President of Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) While Something within Me is a memoir - and gift - for his grandchildren, it is also a revelation that the greatness of Michael Wilson is rooted in the goodness of Michael Wilson. Given the times we are living through, Something within Me is an informative, touching, and wonderfully readable gift to us all. - Bill Wilkerson, Executive Chairman of Mental Health International