Hello Lovely FNAF fans,
I am just returning from my first anime convention at SacAnime, which was such a wonderful experience. I was privileged to meet so many amazing people and it was such an honor to meet fans of the game. Now that I’m home, I can’t seem to get something off my mind. When I get like this, I need to write a bit and then I can let it go. So I decided to write to you, FNAF fans. One of the things which amazed me the most about SacAnime was the level of talent on display. Between the amazing cosplayers, the artists in artist alley, and the talent shown to us by our own beloved fans who met us in the autograph sessions, my senses were overwhelmed. Something which stuck with me though, and broke my heart, was the repeated comments from these amazing people who seemed to be in awe at how much we fawned over them. As if perhaps we were just being nice. I heard repeatedly from parents of some of our fans how much they appreciated the kind things we said to their kids, because they struggle with self esteem. So I want to just share my heart with you a bit. I want you to know that our swooning over you was absolutely sincere. When you left, we still talked of how amazed we were at the talent we saw. I remember what it’s like to be in jh/high school. In the big scheme of things, it’s such a bizarre time in life, where your value often depends so much on your level of skill in sports or how attractive you are. And I know you hear adults tell you how that won’t matter once you graduate, but when you’re surrounded by people every day, reinforcing the fact that you don’t matter unless you can throw a ball or look hot in a mini skirt, it’s so hard to really believe it. So I want to add my small voice to others who have said it much more eloquently than I can. As for me, I fangirl when I see people with artistic skill. Whether that’s drawing, animation, game development, writing, you name it. The first night of the conference I happened to meet a 7 foot tall very attractive guy who was clearly expecting me to be hyped about meeting him. It turns out he plays for the Kings and was in town for a game. I have no idea who the Kings are. I tried to feign being impressed. On the flip side, I got to meet several of the artists in the artist alley, and went completely nuts over them because their art was AMAZING. I also got to chat with one of the game developers at gearbox (who is also the husband of one of our lovely cast members) and was trying not to gush, because what he does I find so incredible. I say all that to say this. Though you may be in a period of life in which people whose brain hasn’t fully developed yet don’t think your existence matters, it does. YOU MATTER. These amazing skills which you are passionate about matter. Work hard, hone them, and keep in mind that one day people will be able to see and appreciate you. One of the things I loved most about college was the fact that you could immerse yourself in a big group of people who loved the same things you love. Are there still people there who will think you are a nobody? Sure. But you can surround yourself with people with similar interests and you don’t really have to interact as much with people who make you feel small. Hold on, those of you who are struggling. When you feel invisible, just know that there are people out there who admire what you do. Who see the value in it. Patiently endure, my friends. Keep doing what you love. You are all such an inspiration to me.

Love to you all,
Heather Masters

p.s. I am a bit of an introvert, so putting this out there is a bit of a stretch for me. If I don’t respond to comments it’s because social media is overwhelming to me and I can barely keep up with twitter.

p.p.s. I posted this on my twitter as well, just to verify that it's really from me. @iheathermasters