Thread by @matthewmercer

#criticalrolespoilers
#criticalrole

Seeing some VERY weird conversation about planned “aging” of characters and the like... which is very much not the case? A randomly rolled encounter combined with unexpected player choices makes for unexpected outcomes.

I’m seeing some really toxic discussions, based in (surprise) shipping spaces. Don’t get me wrong. I’m all for shipping. I think, when engaged with in a HEALTHY way, can be a great way to enjoy media and engage with it.

However, the misinterpretation of a story (especially improvised) wielded as a weapon against others who disagree with your ship, or anger against not seeing YOUR ship realized and turning it into hate for a fandom and/or it’s creators is toxic beyond belief.

Sometimes the mental gymnastics I read when some folks try to justify a perceived, personal slight by creators and storytellers who both made no promises to you, or did nothing but continue to follow an organic, honest path with care, makes me not want to create.

Scenarios like this continue to push me away from engaging online, for my own mental health. I don’t want to pull away, but man... sometimes you all try my patience. The conspiracies, the assumptions, the untrue, unwarranted statements... *sigh*

To follow up, I am very aware that (thankfully) such scenarios are very much in the minority. Every fandom has its toxic elements, and those sometimes can be the LOUDEST by far, skewing perception. Even so, we see the overwhelming good, and that (+my friends) keeps me going. <3

I’m ok, and handling my own anxieties with the growing attention in the best ways I can, but this is more about me trying to say my peace on the subject. I grew up in fandom. I adore fandom, and love helping ours flourish. I’ve see it doing amazing things. This is just a blemish.