POV: You're Explaining to Your Mates Why You're on a Paranormal Forum

I got absolutely roasted at the pub last night when someone noticed I was reading a post about cryptids in the Scottish Highlands on my phone. 'Oh mate, you're one of THOSE people are you?' I tried to explain that I'm genuinely interested in unexplained phenomena from a research perspective, not because I think I'm going to meet Nessie next Tuesday.

But it's impossible to defend to people who think anything not on the 9 o'clock news is either made up or a waste of time. Got me thinking about how many of us are on here quietly because we'd get mocked otherwise. So... what's the weirdest excuse you've given someone about why you're interested in this stuff?

I just tell people I'm interested in folklore and historical accounts. Which is technically true. Then they don't need to know I'm also genuinely open to the possibility that some of it might be real. Problem solved, no mocking.

I'm at the other end - I just own it. Yeah, I think there's weird stuff happening that science hasn't explained yet. People think I'm mad but at least I'm honest. Most of them are sat watching Love Island so their judgment isn't exactly golden.

My mates think I'm on here for creative writing inspiration. Which, fair enough, this stuff would make brilliant fiction. I don't bother correcting them. Let them think what they want.

This is the most relatable post I've seen in months. There's definitely a stigma around taking this seriously. But honestly, we're just curious people. That shouldn't be embarrassing.