A complete novice in computing can be shown how to use some #programming language in just a few weeks. In a few months, he will have amassed adequate skills to not embarrass himself in polite company. But he will need about a decade more of focused learning and working to become a #programmer.
Similarly, an experienced programmer can pick up a new language in a few hours. But he will need at least a couple of years of persistent use to become proficient in it.
The trouble, though, is us—the #programmers. We fall into two camps: one-language homesteaders and all-language nomads. Even when we are obliged to use one language on one project, year after year, the first type is constantly looking for ways to return to their one true language and the second type is perpetually seeking ways to subvert the project so they can bring in the latest unproven languages.
