Fan

I got my love for reading from my parents. They took me to a lot of bookstores throughout my childhood. Early on, I discovered MAD Magazine and comic books. It helped that back issues were cheap. Or Cheap! as MAD advertised. Lots of issues would fit whatever limited budget I had.

Marvel Comics published letters from fans. Sometimes, they were questions, but mostly, it was excited readers sharing their appreciation. I had never thought of that before but was inspired to send fan letters.

I’ve sent many handwritten notes, emails, and DMs. It’s a little work to track some people down, though the internet has made that easier. I’m sure some notes don’t make it. Either way, I never expect a response.

I recently re-established the habit of seeking these opportunities. Sometimes, it is the output of their efforts. Other times, it’s the mindful way they engage with their work. Work in every sense of the word. I try to notice the influential creations and make a note to send a fan letter.

Every single one of them is a struggle. “What do I say? What if I sound stupid?” I try to talk myself out of it. “They already know they are awesome. Maybe they are tired of hearing it.” Eventually, I write a simple message. I try to be specific, but sometimes it’s just a genuine “Thank you for what you do.”

Recently, I got a reply. I’d sent a fan letter about something I learned from them. I have shared what they taught me with many others. She wrote back. Her week had been challenging. She found the note touching and mentioned how timely and meaningful it was.

Within days of this experience, I was the recipient of a note. Mine had the same magical timing as the one I sent. Both notes were received at just the right time. The words did not matter. The existence of the note was sufficient.

Can I see the many hands contributing to my experience? Do I notice those I should? Have I told them?

Be curious, be kind, be whole, do good things.