For years, when I was growing up, I edited what I said. Later it turned into editing sentences and grammar, and that grew to include coining phrases, plots and wordsmithing. For some reason, I have a knack for pointing out flaws, which in my early years, bordered on offending tender egos. So over the years, with self-editing, I have learned to win friends and influence enemies.

To me, editing is a creative process and it includes reading, listening and coaching. I like helping writers dig out their words. Sometimes I read along as the story is read aloud. Does it have clarity? ryhthm? do I stay with the story from beginning to end? I want to give edits that are in support of the story, and similar to the author's writing style.

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