Oh, no. Umeboshi?
What's wrong?
I bought this rice ball, and I didn’t think it had anything in it. But it has umeboshi in it.
You don't like pickled plums? They are delicious. Why don't you like them?
Well, they're sour.
There are many other foods that taste sour, too. Like lemons.
I like lemons. The sour taste of lemons is very different from pickled plums. Also, pickled plums are too soft.
There's a hard type, too. It's crunchy like a carrot.
I know, but I don't like that type, either.
Well, I think pickled plums are one of the greatest joys of life.
Do you really think they're so important?
Of course. I love pickled plums. I can't live without them. They are good for you, too. They have lots of minerals.
Umm, does your family have an umeboshi farm?
No. Why?
Because you sound like you're trying to sell me pickled plums. Or are you a fortune-teller? Did you see that I was unhappy in the future because I don't like pickled plums?
No.
Then, why can't you just leave me alone?
Umm, why are you so angry?
I’m not angry. I just don't like people telling me how to be happy.
Okay, okay. Let's change the subject. Are you free this Saturday?
Yes, I am.
Then, let's go on a date. My friend said he could lend me his car.
Great.
We can go somewhere far, like the beach or the mountains.
Actually, there's somewhere I really want to go.
Where is that?
It's a new music hall by the ocean. They have classical music concerts there. The music hall is beautiful, but you need a car to get there. We can go, right?
Uh, umm.
You don't want to go?
Actually. I don't like classical music.
What? You don't like classical music?
I get sleepy when I listen to classical music. Also, tickets are expensive. I would rather go to a rock or jazz concert.
Classical music is one of the greatest joys of life.
No way. I’m perfectly happy without classical music.
You will be happier with classical music in your life.
How do you know? I think you will be happier if you like umeboshi.
Are we talking about umeboshi again?
Well, you started talking about the joys of life again.
Okay, okay. How about this? I will go to a classical concert with you.
You will?
Yes. So will you try eating this? It's my favorite brand of umeboshi. It has honey in it, so it tastes sweet.
Okay. I'll give it a try. This tastes great. Can I have some more?
Sure, but don't eat it all. Leave some for me.