Funny you mentioned German. I also took German in High School and College. What was really interesting to me was that English is a Germanic language in its roots. As a result, I actually sort of had an epiphany in regards to understanding English even better (the grammar and all that jazz).
Getting back to your statement...
Yea, I think that has a lot to it. What one can't hear, one can't participate as deeply as others who can. There is a definite barrier that one bumps against. Only those like you and I can really appreciate the blessings of being able to achieve dual citizenship if you will.
