THE FANDOM LIFE

So, I realize that in my intro I talked about some of my geekier interests, and I think it’s about time I did a quick post relating to this topic. But rather than pick from one of the numerous shows, movies, or books that I love (okay, okay, obsess over), I decided I would talk about fandoms in general.

At least for now, anyway 😉 (I’m pretty sure a Supernatural post will sneak its way onto this blog eventually…)

The funny thing is, it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I discovered what a fandom really was. I have always had the tendency to develop a rather insane level of enthusiasm for various things that strike my fancy, but for a long time, I didn’t actually realize there was a name for it. Or that there were others that were a part of it. What a wonderful discovery that was, because it meant that, hurray, I was not alone!

I think that is one of the things I find most appealing about the whole fandom thing. Sure, some are a little more insane than others, and, yeah, people may look at the whole concept and shake their heads in utter confusion, but there is really something quite beautiful about the whole thing. It’s like being a part of some huge, wonderful, crazy, slightly dysfunctional family—only this one actually accepts you one hundred percent for the nerd that you are; in fact, they applaud you for it! If you are like me, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. You know that the thing about being a complete geek is that many people—even some of your closest and favorite friends and family members—don’t seem to quite understand you. Why in the world would you rather stay in tonight when you could go out and party with everyone? What is with you getting all emotional over that book you’re reading?–they’re just fictional characters! And if you make one more Sherlock reference… Then, of course, you find yourself struggling to articulate some sort of explanation that they might possibly understand, but quickly realize that it is a feat about as easy as getting that damn ring to Mordor and into the Cracks of Doom.

But then, a miracle happens, and in a flash of light punctuated by a glorious angel chorus, you happen upon the wonderful and weird world of fandoms, and you feel like somehow you’re finally home. These people get it. I mean, really, they actually get it! They totally threw the book at the same place you did, and they, too, were surrounded by boxes of tissues during that one season finale because, oh the feels. There is no explanation necessary. Absolutely none. How beautiful a thing is that?

I think we all spend a lot of time trying to fit in and go with the flow of things–I know I do anyway. It is unfortunately something that we learn how to do all of our adolescent lives, and then we unconsciously start implementing it in our adulthood. But, the thing is, we are who we are, and we should be kind and accepting of every part of ourselves. So, I say, if you are weird, go ahead and be weird. If you’re a nerd, embrace it. If you prefer fiction to reality, go ahead and find your happy place. If you have unbridled enthusiasm for anything, good for you!

Don’t worry, there are plenty of us out there just like you. And this girl, for one, is cheering you on. 🙂