As an almost deaf German who happens to be able to read, write and talk in English, let me thank you for your kind words. In Germany you start learning English very early in basic school. If you go further to advanced schools, then you will have to choose usually between French, Latin or Spanish as a second foreign language to learn. I think in many European countries it is similar - like in the Netherlands, in Sweden and Denmark. Dunno about France - in Paris I've met people who have been talking English and one guy at a hotel even tried to speak German with me, but I am not sure about the majority of the French people. I think in Britain they tend to speak only English too - cause almost everyone on earth seems to be able to at least understand a bit of English. In my days on chat I've learned many different ways between British English, American English, Australian English which was very interesting. I enjoy the ability to be able to read a book in its own native language - translations often misses sensitive points in a foreign language and it is a lot of fun to read the original meanings. I also enjoy the ability to make new friends cause I can communicate with them. I just wish I would be able to learn French, but I found it too difficulty to remember the rules and they write so many things which they don't speak...LOL! English just was easier on me, cause I am from the Northern part of Germany and many many times we do use similar words. I encourage everyone to learn more than the own language, it opens up such a large horizont and enjoyment.