/jp/ - Otaku Culture

Why would a fine lady like her, who has everything, challenge her way through the idol path and college at the same time, where others choose one way over another? Why someone as shy as Yuuka would face this cruel, highly competitive world that is the idol entertainment? Because she chose to break of her shell. Instead of going with the flow, she decided to become the flow. It takes courage to admit our flaws and even more courage to make a change.

Her decision might remind you of a former AKB member, Matsui Sakiko ( despite being a talented pianist, she also wanted to be an idol). Actually, Yuuka has the maturity to make such decision and take responsibility. She was perfectly aware of the overwhelming toughness to bind two side of her that are supposed to be full time. Idol is someone we admire. And people admire those who face difficulties with a brave heart. This is an idol best definition, and Yuuka meet this requirement perfectly. We must not confound kindness with weakness.

Because Yuuka is extremely kind. She is the second oldest member of the group and naturally built a reliable persona so younger member would rely on her. In a rookie group like Keyakizaka, it was mandatory to have someone lead the path for others. The warmth toward her fellow comrades greatly helped her to grow as a person, and the loneliness she was so afraid of became a blossoming bond between girls with the same dream. This positive energy generated from this wish to “protect Keyakizaka” brought Yuuka to overwhelm her insecure nature.

Yuuka is not Noble by title only. She’s noble of heart above anything else. Behind her calm and elegant figure lies someone passionnate, who lives her life to the fullest. She didn’t let her background define her; it was her choices that made her who she is.

Yuuka purity is an exception in the consumer society we’re living in. People run after money, assets, social status. Anything that would improve their wealth, they would take it. Yuuka made it backwards and chose the painful road to reach what truly matters to her : The warmth of friendship, the expression of gratitude to those who support her, and the resolve to do what she believes in. In other words, humility, kindness, and bond.

Her story should inspire all of us : We must show gratitude to those who loves us, and the best way to pay back is to work hard in our duty. Idols is not about running away from reality, it is about cheering up and facing our responsibilities with a positive mindset.

“Whoever claims to be noble must conduct himself nobly.”