A Perfect Circle.

Back in March of 2017, I had been working on my book for nearly four years. I could count the people that knew I was writing a book on one hand. It was a secret I had that I believed would protect me if I gave up and stopped writing. The fewer people who knew what I was trying to do meant that I would be spared the eventual embarrassment when I failed.

My writing process at that time was uneven to say the least. My procrastination was deep-fried in a vat of self-doubt. Inspired periods of creativity were rare. After some reflection, I realized that I needed to lower my guard and share my work. Any constructive criticism or praise that came my way would only serve to make me a better writer and give my morale a boost.

Luckily, my friends Rich and Jenni at the Coffee Shop NE in Minneapolis were hosting an open mic night for writers. I gathered together the pages of a chapter I was happy with and thought would translate as something interesting to hear read aloud. That 10 minutes before an audience served to erase years of frustration, anxiety, and ego. It helped steer me in a direction that would eventually get me across the finish line to publication.

So, it was really special to appear again at the Coffee Shop NE last week to read at another author event. In 2017, my hands held the crumpled pages of a rough draft with last-minute corrections in red ink. This time, I held and read from my published book. It was a full-circle moment stitched together from many mistakes and breakthroughs and with the help of many people.

If you're ever in Northeast Minneapolis, stop by Rich and Jenni's Coffee Shop. Or if a meal or a round of drinks is what you need, head over to their new restaurant!

@The Coffee Shop NE (6/14/25)

"A perfect circle of acquaintances and friends...Speak out sometimes..but try to win."

Hope all is well with you and yours,

-Scott