We help create each other.

I like being creative. But how does one be? Creative, that is. In my case, it means taking risks. Not afraid of becoming a fool. Making mistakes. Testing the limits. Of most everything. But especially writing. Doing it my way. Not the considered right way. The same way that I fall in love. Indeed, that’s risky business. But in the end, I’ve created something wonderful. With some help, of course. From my Italian true love. I’ve become more creative. Under her tutelage. That’s to be expected. After all, she’s a professional teacher. Looks like one, too. Maybe a college professor. Intelligent. Wise. And beautiful, too. Extraordinarily. I’m creatively dazzled. Just the way one should be. In love. Maybe she won’t like me saying all this. Because she’s modest. Shy, too. But I bring out the best in her. As she does with me. We help create each other.—Jim Broede