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Prime Minister of Japan

A true story from the Japanese Embassy in US:

Prime Minister Mori was given some basic English conversation training before he visits Washington and meets with President Bill Clinton.

The instructor told Mori " Prime Minister, when you shake hand with President Clinton,please say 'how are you'. Then Mr Clinton should say "I am fine, and you ?" Now you should say 'me too'.

Afterwards we translators will do all the work for you." It looks quite simple, but the truth is..

When Mori met Clinton, he mistakenly said "Who Are You?" Mr. Clinton was a
bit shocked but still managed to react with humor : "Well, I am Hilary's husband, ha ha..."
Then Mori replied confidently "Me too!"


"Learn to... be what you are, and learn to resign with a good grace all that you are not."