30 Days of Truth, Days Seventeen and Eighteen

Day Seventeen: A Book That's Changed My Views

I can't say as I've ever read one book that's changed my views on something. Mostly because I would never allow one author's opinion or research be the complete basis for any change in my life...I find the very notion completely ignorant and unfortunate. So, I'm rewording this one to "A Book That's Expanded My Views".

The book that has really pushed me to stretch myself is a book about...me. The book is entitled "Style Statement: Live by Your Own Design" by Danielle LaPort and Carrie McCarthy.

"Style Statement" is really more of workbook than anything and while it sounds like something about fashion it goes much, much deeper. Through exercises and self-reflections, this book guides you to establish your two-word style statement. The first word is your foundation and accounts for 80% of your style while the second word is about what makes you unique.

"Style is the dress of thoughts." ~Philip Dormer Stanhope

My style statement is "Structured Whimsy" which basically means I like things with an underlining structure and support but feel something isn't really finished unless there is a little nonsense or play included. Sounds like an oxymoron, but if you know me it makes complete sense - I'm really a designer at heart. I make things, but I only like to make things that have a purpose. While I appreciate fine art, it's not something I personally enjoy making. I love to design clothing and spaces that are functional yet have a surprise. I love puns and wordplay. This book has helped me simplify my life (and save money and time!) because when I have to make a decision or make a purchase I simply ask myself, "Does this fit into my defined style statement?"

Day Eighteen: My Views on Gay Marriage

"If homosexuality is a disease, let's all call in queer to work: 'Hello. Can't work today, still queer.'"
~Robin Tyler

This is simple for me: gay marriage should be legalized in all states. This has nothing to do with my religious ideals and more to do with the fact that the government should stay the hell out of our beds and homes. I also think it a completely absurd that a gay couple who have been together for 20 years, have a home, children and life together cannot get married because it will "destroy the sanctity of marriage" but I can go outside, find a willing man, fly to Vegas, get married, get divorced a week later and this is somehow okay because our uglies aren't the same. Really?! Really.