We have worked in Japan for a long time continually learning Japanese. We have gotten pretty effective in the language doing public speaking (sermons, devotions), leading group discussions (Bible studies), and various person conversations including the telephone. We freely admit that Japanese is one of the hardest languages to learn. The other day someone asked how long did it take you to learn it. My response was 50 years! It may take 100 years!
Recently we have noticed how even Japanese struggle with their own language. Often Japanese need an open dictionary when they are writing a personal letter. Also few can write with confidence apart from the tools on their computer. Then we saw this headline: “Japan PM’s reading blunders spark study spree.” This is an amusing article on how even the Japanese Prime Minister goofs up in the language. The article also highlights the difficult of the Japanese language even for Japanese people. It also shows how shameful it is when you do goof. So pray for us that we may not look as bad.To read the copyrighted article please click here. http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/03/04/asia/AS-Japan-Reading-Japanese.php