Well, let me add my voice to the chorus. Don't do it, mc. If you simply MUST have another guitar, let it keep your old friend company. (BTW Have I ever mentioned my easy payment loan program? Only 46% interest. No, not simple interest - it's compounded semi-weekly. And there is no amount that is too small to request.) In your post you carefully articulated the very good reasons for keeping the Gibson. You have a history with it. It belongs with you. And with some small changes you can alter its voice to suit you. Bring it to someone who knows a few things about guitars and let them help you to implement one or more of the suggestions mentioned above.

Sorry to say this, but to me this is tantamount to sending your dog to the pound because he will no longer eat the same brand of kibbles he has for years.

There are solutions. Seek them out and give them a try. Most of them won't cost much at all.