a story

Today I want to tell you a story. This is a true story of the Japanese Embassy in the United States. Days ago, Prime Minister Mori received some instructions in Basic English conversation before he visits Washington and meets president Barack Obama… The instructor told Mr. Mori: When you shake hand with President Obama, please say ‘How are you’. Then Mr. Obama should say, ‘I am fine, and you?‘. And you say: ‘Me too’. Afterwards we, the translators, will do the work for you. It seems very simple, but the truth is… When Mr. Mori met Obama, he mistakenly  said ‘Who are you?’ – Instead of ‘How are you?’ At first, President Obama was a little shocked, but then he replied with humor: ‘Well, I’m Michelle’s husband, ha-ha-ha…’ Then Mr. Mori replied: ‘Me too, ha-ha-ha…’ Then there was a long silence in the meeting room…