I have followed this thread as I have come to follow most things on the Mudcat lately, with interest, bemused, but reluctant to post. I've spent more time away in the past year or so than in the previous 8. But I always come back, because I never cease to be amazed at the over-all success of this place- the wit, wisdom, depth of knowledge in so many areas, the kindness and care, generosity and stick-to-it-ive-ness of the vast majority of folks who hang around here.
I've learned to utterly ignore posts that I might find tedious. I've spent far less time below the line than I used to. But I keep coming back, because here is where so many of my friends are, and where great things still happen. There's still amazing music here, folks, and good people.

When I try to imagine what my life would be like without the Mudcat, I realize the knowledge I've gained, the friendships, the contacts, the ways my mind has been opened, and I'm grateful.

Thanks, Max, for this place, and thanks for speaking up and generating this conversation, however it has evolved. I still may not speak up as much as I used to, but I send my widow's mite when I can, and will continue to do so.