A considerable number of the Japanese aren't good at English, though they surely learned it for several years in school. The linguistic systems of Japanese and English are totally different from each other. Moreover, people in Japan don't need to use English as long as they stay in Japan. These are, I think, the reasons why they can't speak English well.
Some people, however, keep an intense passion for mastering English after graduation. Such people, including me, who had already ended their education and had jobs, got together at an English class which was open to public. The teacher, who came from Michigan, was a native speaker of English and a professor of a nearby college.
Now some members have already retired from their work. The English learning group itself broke up a few years ago. A member, who used to be a professor of Ehime University, Rock Science, made a suggestion to have a reunion party at his house, which is located deep in the forest south of Matsuyama City and 9 people attended today's party. We enjoyed talking over great dishes and drinks after an interval of several years.
I don't have permission to upload the pictures from women, so I'll show you some pictures of the men only, though I don't have them from men. The next party is scheduled in autumn.
Thank you. You are an inspiration to many. You are highly successful in your life. As a surgeon, you are one of the most highly trained people on Earth. You know multiple languages, you keep yourself fit, you have an adventurous spirit, and you have a giving nature. On top of all this, you helped to raise a successful daughter. You are living life well. I always enjoy seeing what new adventure upon which you are set to embark.
Posted by: Shiroi_Tora | Jun 16, 2014 at 01:24 PM
Shiroi_Tora
Your comments are always powerful motivators for me to keep learning English and other languages. Appreciate you!
Posted by: KUMO | Jun 16, 2014 at 01:20 PM
You are living the good life. You are in a profession, of which, I am sure you love. You travel and keep your mind stimulated through various means. You also eat well, exercise, and have great social ties. These are all keys to living long and well. It is good to see people enjoying life, as I see you are in these pictures sharing laughter with some friends.
It is good to see a doctor practicing what he preaches. Would more people do as you do, there would be less of a need for medical intervention as they aged.
Seeing you happily sharing with friends makes me think how I should really strengthen old social ties.
Posted by: Shiroi Tora | Jun 11, 2014 at 12:19 PM