For countless Gunpla and scale model enthusiasts, the dreaded "backlog" – a mountain of unbuilt kits – is practically a rite of passage. Whether it's a lack of time or the sheer ritual of accumulating them, these towering piles have become a common sight in the homes of hobbyists worldwide.
Recently, renowned Japanese model manufacturer Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co., Ltd. (Aoshima) dropped a heartwarming message on X (formerly Twitter) that struck a chord with model lovers everywhere. It not only cleverly eased the guilt associated with "backlogs" but also served as a gentle nudge, encouraging everyone to re-evaluate the true meaning of their hobby.
On April 10, Aoshima posted that model building is more than just a hobby:
✔ It helps you zone out
✔ It lets you express your unique style
✔ The sense of accomplishment upon completion is off the charts!
They declared it nothing less than "soul maintenance"!
The very next day, Aoshima followed up, addressing the common backlog dilemma: "Couldn't resist hoarding again, could you?" they asked. "Don't worry! What you're piling up isn't just models; it's 'future happiness'." This sentiment immediately sparked a flood of shared stories and heartfelt agreement from netizens.
Many users wholeheartedly agreed with Aoshima, with one exclaiming, "Those aren't sinful models on my shelf; they're my future happiness!" He even shared a touching anecdote about his father, who loved models in his youth, rekindling his passion in retirement, leaving a half-built Nagato battleship model that brought both a smile and a pang of emotion.
Another netizen suggested that backlogs have become a ritual, and their home doesn't "pile models" but rather "stores reserves." They emphasized that having plenty of reserves brings peace of mind, calling it "spiritual sustenance."
"Future happiness" deeply resonated with many model fans, making them feel truly understood.
One particularly poetic user wrote, "Whenever life hits a wall, I grab a box from the pile and embark on a new journey. Poverty might be a sin, but models never are."
However, reality isn't always so romantic. Some users humorously lamented their own struggles, citing the difficulty of VFG's metal monsters, an untouched Patlabor command vehicle kit, and their own perceived lack of painting skills combined with overly detailed models. "My unfinished mountain might be taller than I imagine," one quipped.
Others expressed a more somber outlook: "Presbyopia has set in, I can't see the small parts anymore. What if I pass on before finishing them, only for my family to send them to a second-hand shop...?" The thought of such a future felt too cruel.
Amidst the humor and raw honesty, it's clear that model collections are more than just a hobby; they're companions, sources of anticipation, and an integral part of life itself. Aoshima's simple yet profound statement offered a collective redemption to countless model enthusiasts.
"Your backlog isn't a sin; enjoyment is the essence." So, the next time you gaze at that row of unopened model boxes, ditch the stress. Perhaps you can use these words to comfort and encourage yourself to tackle them while you still can!