I have a thing for inspirational television.

No... not the kind with bombastic quoting of scripture and where a mascara-laden southern belle pours her heart out singing Amazing Grace.

I have a thing for secular inspirational television.  The type of TV that gives me hope in the human condition. 

Shows like Extreme Makeover - Home Edition, and choice episodes of Oprah can leave me a blubbering mess. 

Back before they were concerned about Brad and Angelina, shows like ABC's 20/20 would find opportunities to put a spotlight on amazing people (their spotlight on the story of door-to-door salesman Bill Porter is still one of my favourites.) 

And I find that inspirational television can come in some of the strangest places -- including during the commercial breaks.

I've bumped in to a few people now who've seen the RBC "Mr. Muffin" commercial during the Olympics.  They - like I - find something strangely encouraging about the ad.  It may be the pleasant childhood memories that the claymation triggers.  It might be the wistful soundtrack.  For me, it's all those things, plus the commercial's main story and message -- something big can come out of one little idea.

To me, that's an inspiration. 

Yes, it's effective advertising.  Yes, I know I'm being sold.  But even if I'm not in the market for a small business loan, I know the worst that RBC has done is given me a tiny dollop of hope.

Is that so wrong?

Sure, I fill up on a lot of junk food television that does nothing for my soul or my general sense of spirit.  But stuff like this?  It's the tastes-good and good-for-you kind of TV I think we all need a little more of.

John Himpe is Program Director of News Talk Radio.