Stardust*

But why is liking super hero's or anything else different or "okay" in the eyes of society? Why is it okay for people to like violent video games and that is the norm, but liking ponies that help with every day issues of friendship and acceptance is a bad thing?

I don't think it is that big of a deal honestly, but when people have an issue with wanting to by merch but they "can't" because they are afraid of what their parents might think if they do... is just hard for me to understand. Like you said, it is not like they are coming out of the closet, it is just a television show. It is just like telling someone you like Star Trek and you want to get some Trek merch. I just don't know why it is such a big deal for some people to enjoy what they like, and have the freedom to express themselves. Boy, girl, man, woman, it should not "define" you as a person, and it's not like you are going out of your way to be overly obsessed and go out dressed as a pony every day.

Well said. Everything is very insightful, I just wish that with today's society and how everyone wants equality and the right to do whatever, that people shouldn't be ridiculed for liking a "little girls show". If this was a show that cast live people in a more storybook type of way then there would be a larger fandom than there already is. People are just so worried about every little thing that they don't look at the big picture.

Is it always sons? or do some parents have an issue no matter the gender?

I am kind of shocked by how many members and so many more of the fandom are afraid to let their family know or their friends. Yes I am older, I'm 25 soon to be 26 and I have grown up with multiple remakes and the original My Little Pony and it wasn't a big deal. I still don't think it is a big deal today, my family knows I love the show and I love all of the merch and such. They support my art and they want to see me grow and develop it into something more and maybe eventually be good enough to sell things for commissions. Someday soon hopefully! But over the last few years I have heard stories where elementary school children are being bullied by other kids because they like the show, they were bullied to the point where they wanted to take their own lives. It is honestly sad and pathetic that kids do this to their fellow classmates. But I am really concerned about those who are afraid to tell their parents. I mean, I don't see it being any different then being a fan of some other show. Look at Star Trek (which I am also a fan of), or Dr. Who, or any and all of the anime shows. I am not trying to point fingers or single anypony out but this is coming from a place where I am truly curious and if there is anything that we as a community can do to support those who are having a hard time. I don't want somepony to feel like they can't talk to the people they care about and have to hide something that they love. I do understand to a point where you might hide it from other class mates because... let's face it, some kids can be REALLY mean, and that stems from the home and the parents of THAT child. I am honestly curious and concerned from a Psychological standpoint and from a concerned member of the fandom. Please feel free to post your story or if you have had any experience with confronting other people or why you may feel that family/friends may not support you. -Stardust*