Monday, April 1, 2013


This is a true story from the Japanese Embassy in US.
A few years ago, Japanese Prime Minister Mori was given some basic English conversation training before he visited Washington and met President Bill Clinton.
The instructor told Prime Minister Mori, “When you shake hands with President Clinton, please say ‘how are you’.
Then Mr. Clinton will say, ‘I am fine, and you?’
Now then you should say ‘me too’.
Afterwards we, translators, will do the work for you.’ ”
It looks quite simple, but the truth is…
When Mori met Clinton , he mistakenly said ‘who are you?’ (instead of ‘how are you?’)
Mr. Clinton was a bit shocked but still managed to react with humor: ‘Well, I’m Hillary’s husband, ha-ha…’
And Mori replied ‘me too, ha-ha.. .’
Then there was a long silence in the meeting room.

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