Meeting Elizabeth Gilbert was more than just a photo - here’s what I took away from the night

A year ago, I bought a VIP ticket to see Elizabeth Gilbert live. It wasn’t my first VIP experience, but it was the first one I had personally paid for—and it felt like a big decision. An extra $100 for a front-row seat, a photo, and a meet-and-greet with her.

At the time, I wasn’t entirely sure why I chose the most expensive ticket. I wasn’t an obsessive fan. I loved her books (Eat, Pray, Love, Committed, Big Magic) and admired her boldness, but I didn’t feel like I needed to be in the front row. Yet something deep inside nudged me to say yes.

And I’m so glad I did.