The most awkward moment for me began back in the early days. In fall 2016 I bought a Rarity figurine (the one below) with the last of my allowance during a trip to Walmart to get some rice for my mom. I hid it in my backpack and quietly unboxed - no, un..wrapped? (however the heck you say it) during one of my online classes and unraveled her hair. It felt soooooo awkward I tell ya!
But I did a quick search, snuck her into the bathroom one day, wet, brushed, and dried her hair, then combed it, before attempting a simple braid and a ponytail with the ribbon. I did volunteer work at a nearby islamic school as a parking manager, managing the flow of parents dropping off their kids and ensuring no one got hurt.
TMI TMI! Let's get to the meat of this...
One day I just decided to bring Rarity with me (I'd kinda fallen in love with her by this time), and set her down on the chair that I'd typically sit on while waiting for cars to pull in, while I stood. Sometimes I'd sit down holding her in my hands. Right from day one the little Muslim girls started to notice, and soon a few inquired about it. Aaaaand I had to explain, which did feel awkward. But slowly I broke out of my shell and began talking with them more and more. I then bought Pinkie and Twilight, and word got 'round. Soon the girls became even more excited to see me and chat about MLP - given they arrived extra early.
Even though this phase of my bronyhood is over, credit where credit is due: It gave me the push to become social and have a topic I could openly and enthusiastically discuss. All from one little pony toy.