We're in this together.

                                              We’re in this together.

Most people in the sci-fi and comic book convention world are pretty laid-back, good-hearted people. They go to shows, meet new people, and share their fandom with others who love the same stuff. But most are completely oblivious to the "dark side" of fandom—the side that those of us who are aware of it feel embarrassed to even be associated with.

It’s mainly all about opinions. Now, don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying you shouldn't have an opinion or that yours has to match everyone else's. I’ve always thought a difference of opinion is a great thing. Just imagine what kind of world this would be if everyone thought exactly the same way. Personally, that’s not somewhere I’d want to live.

A while back, I was having a conversation with a friend that made me think of a specific question: “Why do you think you’re a bigger fan than me?”

A person I used to know has a daughter who happens to be the current Guinness World Record holder for the largest Doctor Who memorabilia collection. I have personally read the vitriolic comments people have written about her and her family. I honestly couldn’t believe the things people were saying about a child. I know for a fact she’d save her allowance and birthday money just to add to her collection. But that’s neither here nor there—it’s not your money, so they can spend it however they want. Sadly, there will always be someone out there who won't like you for your accomplishments, no matter what they are.

Some people assume that because she has the largest recorded collection, she must automatically think she’s a bigger fan than everyone else. She’d be the first to tell you that’s not true. Does her massive collection make her a bigger fan than I am? No. Does my age make me a bigger fan than she is? Also no. Just because someone has more collectibles doesn’t mean they’re a "better" fan. And just because I’ve been watching the show since before she was born doesn’t give me more "fan points" either.

I used to go to way more conventions than I do now. There’s one local show I’ve completely quit going to simply because it’s gotten so expensive I can’t afford it anymore. But for those who can? Good for them! I just can’t bring myself to pay $100 for a single autograph, but a lot of people do, which is why those prices keep climbing.

Do I spew hatred or anger because someone spends their money on expensive autographs or has a plethora (Thank you El Guapo) of collectibles? Of course not. But some people do—even when they get called out publicly for it. When someone acts like that, they just come off like a jealous child crying to whoever will listen because someone has something they don't. “I WANT AN OOMPA LOOMPA NOW!!”

The bottom line is: there’s so much negativity in the world right now; do we really need it leaking into the places we go to escape that negativity? Do we really need to treat fellow fans with anger because they have more stuff or happen to prefer the female Doctor? In my opinion, no. Or at least, we shouldn't.

Because in the end, what does it matter? You don’t like a particular Doctor? Cool. No one said you had to. That’s your opinion and you’re entitled to it. But don’t treat someone like garbage just because they disagree. You’re both fans of the same thing. So, let's just enjoy the fandom and... “Would you like a Jelly Baby?”

Made in England

 Dr. Martens: Made in England

                Most people who have known me for a while know that I love Dr. Martens. I have worn Docs since the seventh grade, when my Granny bought me my first pair of 10-eye boots. Back then, all Dr. Martens were made in England. In 2003, I believe, the company was facing bankruptcy and moved production to China and Thailand. As many fans noticed, the quality suffered severely. While my original English-made boots lasted for many years, the ones made in Asia barely lasted a year before falling apart.

Even though the original Cobbs Lane factory in Wollaston, England saw the first pair of Docs roll off the line on April 1, 1960, the business actually traces back much earlier, to 1901. Back then, they were a traditional bootmaker. A year after they outsourced to Asia, they began production on the 'Vintage' or 'Made in England' line. Although some small-scale machinery is used, these boots are essentially handcrafted in limited quantities. I love this line so much that I now own four pairs; I refuse to buy any pair not made in England. You may pay more, but you certainly get your money’s worth in quality and craftsmanship.

Most people also know that I collect autographs. Some of my fellow collectors might not understand what I’m about to say, but someone doesn’t have to be famous for you to value their signature. This brings me to my most recent acquisition. I decided to write to one of the cobblers who made my boots at the Cobbs Lane factory. I only had a single first name to go on, but I took a chance and wrote to her asking for her autograph.

Yesterday, I received something in the mail that has easily made its way onto my list of favorites: a personal letter and three Polaroids from inside the factory. I am beyond flabbergasted. It was totally unexpected and, in my book, incredibly cool.