Thanks for the mention :)
I've tried giving up, but in different ways. For instance, to stop getting tiny upvotes for the posts I cared about, I set those posts to Decline Payout...but then the team changed the submit page and I can no longer set the payout at the time I create the post (I really don't know why they did it, all they did is make it more difficult for us).
I spent a minimum of 4 hours a day going to check out newbie posts so as to help those I think can contribute something. The result? I saw everyone else speed past me in rep and the dosh, while a couple of the newbies took umbrage at my trying to help them and flagged me.
So, now I just make the posts I want to make; I no longer worry what anyone will think of me, I never was one for lots of friends or being part of a community (I hate having to submit to rules others make), having just a few who are real friends was/is all I've ever aimed for. For them, I will gladly make sacrifices when needed.
I see what is happening to the promise Mankind had of a future that would take us to the stars and hopefully a new level of maturity; all sacrificed by a small number of monsters who are willing to destroy all of mankind, just so that they stay in power (they will not, however well they plan it, their own children and grandchildren will stray from the path they set for them, but still, it will be too late for us to achieve our potential). At times, these thoughts make me want to blow some steam and rant. Previously I had to worry about those who do not like such posts and an odd flag from them.
Now? I don't care - and the funny thing is, the flags stopped. I gow, very slowly, and because it means I cannot set targets for myself, as the grave will arrive first, I am now free to enjoy myself and, sometimes offer a helping hand.
PS: Which reminds me, nearly end of the month, so, my contribution for June is being made today. Sad it cannot be big enough to make a difference, but glad that despite being old and a pensioner, I can make the gesture by my own creativity. Cherine and Samantha would love me just for that, and that is worth achieving.
You sir are a legend, I like your style, and it was you who first talked to me on here when I was that newbie, I have had a little luck on here, and some very generous upvotes by people with more sp than I will ever have. I notice when you stray from the book path you get much more upvote loving, and sometimes when you do a banker or political post even more so, so if you did want targets you already know your markets, though something tells me you are happy with your lot, and you can't get much better than that.
Thanks for the donation, it is massively appreciated, I will be giving some to pennsif towards his charities this month, and sending some over for Tom, he had £110.00 yesterday, and will get the same weekly, it is not earth shattering money, it does go a long way in Syria though. Thank you my friend.