" to all members who posted in this thread while logged in - you missed the point."

and

"without fear of being put down as a guest."

Most of the members and posters on this forum have no problem whatso-ever with guests. Speaking for myself - what I have problems with is the people who post trying to stir things up; or hurt; or denigrate while using the "cover" of guest. many people are "guests" here who are also regular posters. Many people pop by for a quick question - you don't expect them to sign up unless they hang around. And no one has to sign up, though there are benefits.