The significant Mr. Berlusconi.

Some Italians tell me that most Italians are ignorant. That they don’t know how to pick a decent political leader. That they  invariably  end up with a buffoon. Such as Silvio Berlusconi. He’s been prime minister three times. And is dangerously close to a fourth. Of course, I don’t necessarily buy into the premise that Italians are stupid. Maybe Berlusconi is a wise choice. The Italians may be in search of comic relief. No doubt, Berlusconi provides it. Though some Italians weep over his style of politic. They ain’t laughing. Maybe they lack a sense of humor. The world pokes fun at the Italian electoral system. And at Italians in general. Because of the likes of Berlusconi, a 76-year’old billionaire tycoon. He fancies himself a dapper lover. Still capable of attracting young lovers. Though his money and political power may have something to do with it. Anyway, when Berlusconi is on stage, he draws worldwide attention to Italy. Some say that any kind of attention is good attention. And that Berlusconi is a master at his art of buffoonery. Perhaps the greatest buffoon to have ever lived. So give the guy credit. He’s achieved something significant. In his role as prime minister. –Jim Broede