Good Manners

[madimpossibledreamer]

Main Points:
Bleach universe optional
Summary: Why Ukitake is so cheerful.
Word Count: 174
Rating: Gen

            Ukitake-taichō is regarded as something of a marvel within Soul Society.  Most wonder how he’s so kind and gentle all the time, how he’s polite and always has a smile for everyone.  Most think it’s despite his condition.

            Shunsui knows better.  Knows that it’s because, not despite.  Laughter and smiles are the best medicine, and Jūshirō’s had a long time to learn this, more than anyone.

            He surrounds himself with people, not just because it’s familiar, reminds him of home.  It’s easier to have hope when you’re not alone.  It’s easier to trust that you’re alive when you’re surrounded by proof of life.

            It’s easier to be generous, to forgive, when you know you yourself are far from perfect.  That doesn’t mean that Ukitake is a pushover.  He wouldn’t be a Captain if he wasn’t strong, wasn’t willing to fight for what was right, what he believes in.

            It’s a difficult thing to deal with, sometimes.  Shunsui admires his stubborn friend, just as he worries, but given the choice he wouldn’t change a thing.