My favorite thing is when cartoon fans show up to my live gigs!

"My favorite thing is when cartoon fans show up to my live gigs! They are always the most kick-butt audience members 'cause they're not trying to act all cool like a lot of the music fans do!" These words spoken by Grey DeLisle express a deep truth about the nature of authenticity, fandom, and the power of connection in the world of entertainment. In a world where appearances and social posturing often overshadow genuine emotion, DeLisle praises the cartoon fans who come to her shows as embodiments of unfiltered joy and enthusiasm. They are not concerned with acting cool, with maintaining the often superficial front that many music fans may feel compelled to uphold. Instead, they engage with the music and performance with an open heart, offering a raw and real form of support.

At the heart of DeLisle's statement is a celebration of authenticity. How often do we find ourselves in environments where social expectations shape our actions? Whether in the world of entertainment, social media, or even in our personal interactions, we are often bound by the pressure to appear a certain way. This act of trying to be “cool,” of holding back our true feelings, can create a barrier between who we truly are and how we present ourselves to the world. DeLisle’s observation of cartoon fans highlights a freedom from pretense, a space where individuals can truly express their joy and enthusiasm without the fear of judgment.

This dynamic of authenticity versus coolness is not new. Throughout history, great artists and philosophers have pointed to the power of genuine expression over the desire for superficial approval. The Greek philosopher Socrates famously spoke against the pursuit of public honor and recognition, instead urging individuals to focus on the cultivation of the soul and personal integrity. Similarly, Vincent van Gogh, an artist who endured much rejection during his lifetime, worked tirelessly to express his true emotions through his paintings, unburdened by the opinions of the public. He created with passion and authenticity, much like the cartoon fans DeLisle admires, who offer their support not because it is fashionable, but because it comes from a true connection with the work.

Consider the musicians of the past, who, despite not having the reach of modern media, connected deeply with their audiences. Ludwig van Beethoven, for example, composed music that spoke directly to the human soul, and his audiences—especially later in his life, when he was deaf—were profoundly moved by the power and honesty of his work. The audience's connection was not influenced by external trends or the desire to appear “cool,” but by a pure engagement with the emotion conveyed through music. This unpretentious engagement allowed Beethoven to transcend the barriers of time and place, leaving a legacy that endures to this day.

The lesson from DeLisle’s words is clear: genuine connection and enthusiasm are far more valuable than the pursuit of superficial coolness. In a world that often prioritizes the outer appearance, whether in music, art, or daily life, it is the authentic individuals—those who dare to be themselves—that form the most powerful bonds. The cartoon fans DeLisle praises embody this spirit, embracing joy and excitement in a way that allows them to experience the art on a deeper level. They remind us that true engagement comes not from trying to impress others, but from embracing our own true selves and allowing that unfiltered energy to flow freely.

In our own lives, we must learn to embrace authenticity over the mask of social expectations. Whether in our personal relationships or professional endeavors, the more we allow ourselves to be real, to express our passions without fear of judgment, the more we will create connections that are meaningful and lasting. Coolness may seem attractive in the short term, but it is authenticity that leaves a lasting impact—on our own hearts and the hearts of those around us. Let us remember that the true magic of life lies not in pretending to be something we are not, but in embracing our uniqueness and celebrating the joy we can share with the world.

The practical action here is simple: in every interaction, be it personal, professional, or artistic, allow yourself to be true. When we engage with life in a genuine and wholehearted way, we invite others to do the same. This is the path to deep connection, to true fulfillment, and to a life lived without the burden of pretense. Just as DeLisle celebrates the kick-butt spirit of her cartoon fans, so too should we strive to embody this unfiltered enthusiasm in all that we do. Authenticity, not coolness, is the greatest power we can wield in the world.