(2/17/11) MLP:FIM has actually made me a more mature person. My parents and even my friends have noticed. I’ve started watching MLP:FIM after a really bad breakup and it brought a lot of joy into my life. I felt like each lesson really connected with me and whenever I was in a situation, I was like “Wow! I remember this happening to (so-and-so)” Not only did the show make me smile and helped me remember these lessons, but the fandom itself. A lot of bronies bash the Rule 34/Grimdark part of the fandom along with the music, the art, and etc. Instead of taking everyone’s word to avoid it, I explored each section and realized that some of the things people have made aren’t so bad. Yes, there are some bad songs, there are some awkward rule 34 images/blogs, and there is some scary art out there. But, while I say that, there is some pretty amazing art, songs that I listen to on a daily basis and yes, there are some rule 34 blogs that are actually quite funny/awesome. I know some bronies/pegasisters bash this term but “Love and Tolerance” is definitely something that connected with me. You either love something that the fandom produces, or opinions from outside the fandom, or you just say “Hey, you know what? If they like it, they like it. They don’t, they don’t. No big deal.” and shrug it off. With that, I’ve becoming more accepting of even things outside the fandom. I’ve been there to support my friends more and I focused a lot on my work and I’m now getting Bs and As in my college classes. So, thank you MLP and bronies/pegasisters for helping me. :) <3