I KNEW IT I KNEW THEY WOULD BE CONNECTED
BYLER GATES: A GUIDE
(Explaining all the different theories, for anyone who is also lost with how many there are)
THE BIG 4
Flickergate: This theory involves a lot of time shenanigans and is connected to the Will having powers in s5 one (possibly manipulation of time or electricity). Theory claims Will and Mike will kiss in the UD, specifically outside Mike's garage, paralleling 1x01. Will is going to tell the truth at the same time his s1 self is ("it was a seven"), causing the garage light to flicker on Nov. 6th 1983.
Birthdaygate: This theory suggests that the Duffers didn't actually forget Will's birthday is March 22nd (the day of the rink-o-mania incident). It claims that Vecna is actually manipulating the characters' memories (possibly even Will's), making them forget his birthday in the process, maybe in an attempt to make him feel excluded/lonely and making him vulnerable. (Similar to the beginning of Harry Potter and the chamber of secrets, which happened to be on the inspo board for S4)
But also the Creel murders themselves happened on March 22nd.
thanks @will80sbyers @miwiheroes and @sleeeeeping-all-day for the ideas!
mike making dustin feel better, saying he has superpowers,
mike defending el when they called her weird, praising her like a superhero
mike calling will a super spy and empowering him
all while he's only felt like a nobody that's not needed in anyone's life
that painting meant way more than will could ever imagine
i need a will byers in my life