threadwalker

I think for you they may be separate, but for many of my friends and family... it is growing increasingly difficult to feel motivated to give and participate "officially" where it is clear the people in power are clumsily bungling what you care about... or simply don't understand or care. Was it supportive of the Golden Poppy competition to banish a viable participant? You may see that as inconsequential, but not everyone does. Was it supportive of the arts to banish someone who is holding regular A&S classes and activities? I hate to sound pouty (LOL) and obviously I am still doing my thing... but if my activities go offline (the fighter practice will remain a household one; it will not revert back to "official" when my banishment is over) it is because this Crown has clearly shown distain for my contributions. The Crown, directly thru their behavior towards me (and the Golden Poppy and Collegium managment), has turned some people off of to participating in an "official" capacity by seemingly showing a pattern of disinfranchising people who care and are capable of doing the dirty work.

I don't feel I am personally a drain on resources without giving back in many ways when I can. I also think the Rapier community (at least since I've been playing) is willing to make contributions and be helpful as well.