I recently had the opportunity to interview Adrian Miller, the Denver-based author and food historian who will be the keynote speaker at Pikes Peak Library District’s Mountain of Authors program on June 22. Miller has authored three books exploring the history of African American food culture, soul food, and White House chefs. While I was inspired by all that he had to say during the interview, one thing keeps coming back to me again and again.

Miller recounted the conversation that put him on his current path as a historian and author. He had picked up a book about Southern cuisine by John Egerton, and in that book, Egerton mentioned that nobody had written a tribute to Black achievement in American cooking up to that point. Since it had been more than a decade since the book’s publication, Miller reached out to the author to ask if anyone had filled that gap since then. Egerton responded back that nobody had, and asked Miller, ‘why not you?’

Today, Miller is the author of three books exploring the history of Black food culture, and has other books planned. He took a chance and rose to the challenge to pursue something he was interested in despite not having his eyes set on a career as an author before that point. Prior to his conversation with Egerton, Miller was in politics.

Many people have things they are passionate about that they might not have pursued yet themselves. Maybe it’s because they feel like someone else might be better qualified, or because they didn’t realize they could be that person. Miller’s story has inspired me to ask myself ‘why not me?’ about things that I am interested in.

One place that I plan to explore this idea is at PPLD’s All Pikes Peak Makes. This annual program is a celebration of creativity, innovation, science, and making. Library 21c will be full of exhibitors showcasing their creative and technical projects, from robots and Lego builds to 3D printed crafts and laser cut wood crafts. It is a fun all-ages event. Usually, I attend this event to marvel at the innovative projects and hobbies on display. This year, I will also be thinking about the innovative, creative things I am passionate about and making plans to get started.

All Pikes Peak Makes is on April 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Library 21c. If, like me, you find Miller’s experience inspiring, consider stopping by and looking at all the projects on display. The people who made them are passionate about what they do. At some point in their lives, they had to make the same decision to explore their passions as Miller did. Why not come explore yours? Learn more about All Pikes Peak Makes at ppld.org/APPM

Carla Bamesberger is the Public Relations and Marketing Manager for Pikes Peak Library District. Besides reading and touting all that the District offers, this Coloradoan enjoys spending time with her husband and pets, biking, crafting, and gaming. She can be reached at cbamesberger@ppld.org or by calling (719) 531-6333, x6259.