WTF? "-sama"???

[draconis]

For a good many years now, I've addressed my karate instructor here in Memphis as either "Sensei" (teacher) or "Gary-san." Yes, I know that it would be more correct to call him by his last name when I apply the honorific "-san," but he knows I do it as a combined gesture of respect and of friendship.

Earlier this week, I sent him an email concerning an upcoming seminar that we're going to be attending, and I opened it by addressing him as Gary-san, like I often do. When I got his reply, it completely shocked me -- he opened it by addressing me as "C___-sama." Ebbeh?

For those to whom this makes absolutely no sense... in Japanese, you add -san to a person's name as a sign of courtesty/respect. It's like the difference between addressing John Doe as John, or as Mr. Doe.

Use of -sama is less clearly defined, but it is generally the equivalent of "-san times two (or more)."

Excuse me, I'll just be over here, boggling...

Comments

[irishkate.livejournal.com]

Sounds about right to me dragonsama

I can understand your boggle but trust me - it's due

[saxononyx.livejournal.com]

from, what I know of you , your skills and most importantly dedication, it is more than well deserved.

You instutor just told you that he feels you not only his equal in many ways but he see the potential for something truly special. I rich and well deserved compliment.

[laure-nar.livejournal.com]

I think that's wonderful. It's always quite a shock when you realise how much someone really appreciates you. :^)