Sometimes reading can meet a need in the most unexpected way...

March is National Reading Month, so I thought I'd share a quick story about a time I decided to step out of my comfort zone—all in the name of reading.

Flashback to mid-February of last year…I was feeling a little down.

Still disappointed my fam didn’t make it for Christmas, frustrated with myself for not meeting certain goals and milestones, and irritated because I had to wait until April for my next real vacation.

I needed a pick-me-upper.

I needed to do something fun.

I needed to get out and meet new people, see new places...something…anything that would get me out of my funk and also get my creative juices flowing.

There I was scrolling, when up popped a message about a local book club gathering.

It looked interesting enough. Once I clicked on the link and saw the cover and the name of the author—Tia Williams—I was intrigued. After checking out the book summary and learning just how famous this author was (one of her books is being developed into a Netflix series) - I was hooked. I had to be there.

I couldn’t remember the last time I had read a good fiction book-let alone romance. I thought of inviting a couple of friends along, but I knew it was too short of a notice. Yet, without hesitation, I ordered the book and purchased my ticket for the event.

Needless to say, it turned out to be an amazing night!

Everything was fantastic—the scrumptious food, the creative candle-making corner, and the lively conversation with some friendly, fun-loving ladies. The highlight for me was the interview between host, Tanya Sam and Mrs. Williams, who shared some of the behind-the-scenes of creating her book.

Here’s the thing, this was about more than just reading a book. Everything related to the experience met a need.

The need to mingle with folks who shared my interests.

The need to do something fun, but not quite as involved as taking a trip.

The need to explore new ideas (I was particularly interested in author’s use of magical realism, since it’s something I would like to incorporate into a future book).

The experience took me out of my comfort zone, but I'm so glad I decided to go.

Of course, I’m not suggesting that every book choice has to be tied to an event. However, I do find it important to be intentional about trying new things, and what better reason to be curious and open to adventure, than for the sake of reading!

No matter who we are or what stage we might be at in life, reading can…and always will…

…meet our needs.