Well, I’ve lived here long enough.

-When did this shop open?
“More than 30 years ago.”

-Did this area change compared to the old days?
“It changed a lot.”

-Was it better before?
“Well, it is good that the town got cleaner. But there were more warm-hearted relationships between people. Now, it is not safe enough. When I was young, we didn’t need to lock our doors. Oh, hi. (Greet a passing woman.) And this shopping arcade is now deserted. It used to be busier and more prosperous. Those big supermarkets, department stores, and convenience stores were made and people started to go there, not here.”

-Do you feel lonely?
“Yeah. And many shops around here have closed, such as the toy shop and the photo shop. Oh, bye-bye. (Wave hands to a passing child.)”

-You know a lot of people around here.
“Well, I’ve lived here long enough."


（10/20/2013 Jujo）