Learning how to read people.

I cultivate people. Can’t help being fascinated by people. And what makes them tick. Doesn’t come easily in Italy. Because I don’t speak much Italian. I’d love to approach a stranger on the street. And ask him what he’s all about. Chances are, I’d be rebuffed. Told to mind my own business. Sometimes, I ask my Italian true love to do it for me. Become a go-between. My translator. But she’s too shy for that. And she’s respectful of privacy. And I am, too. But only to a degree. I am overcome by curiosity. I have to talk to the stranger on the park bench.  Or the passenger next to me on the plane or bus or train.  Not always easy doing that in Italy. Oh, the language barrier. But I’m learning how to read people. Even when there’s a shortage of words.—Jim Broede