What makes a great romance novel? Why do some movies become classics? 
What defines timeless style? My years of research have lead me to a one word answer: Authentic. When we are guided by our innate sense of who we are, what we do will radiate a confidence and resolve. That is not to say we don’t trip up or fall down, but there is a “of course” realization that goes along with the rough seas.
As a participant on this wild ride through time, I have met some folks who naturally embrace who they are. Amid the judgments and criticisms, they move forward, creating the life they want. The idea of sabotaging their journey and betraying their destiny is alien.
And then there are the formula people. It’s like an equation. If I add a look with a job and subtract this nagging desire to go on an archeological dig, that will equal success. But we all know how that is going to turn out. Although we know it, there is a lot of formula being pushed at us. The impulse to spend time and money on crap is hard to resist. Just think of the movie The Tourist with Angelina Jolie & Johnny Depp. Or most of the New York Times Best Sellers. Crap that is hard to resist.
Fortunately there are the classic and timeless works for us to go back to.
“To Kill a Mockingbird” still evokes deep emotions after the 15th reading. And there is a growing number of folks just following their bliss and creating positive experiences. Authentic.
Here is to being authentic. And here is where I have to add a few words like “handmade jewelry”, “sterling” and “gold” so the search engines can find me. I will embrace that, because that’s the kind of hairpin I am.