I'm gonna take off my diplomats ballcap for a second and put on my Moderator's Tophat (with monocal)
Here's why restricted avatars are good:
<start rant>
The senior members who rightfully earn avatars understand the board etiquette and are the ones who contribute continually through either content or discussion (and in many cases, both).
When you earn an avatar that's saying that know the ropes, don't spit bullshit and you likely keep your trouble causing to a minimum. (unless you are BRNSWCK and laying the smack down). More avatars on the board= More members that understand this place and keep it kick ass. You guys are key to making this place awesome.
Unfortunately I think some of our avatar "policies", however fun they are, have lead some junior board members into thinking they too deserve an avatar ("If this idiot gets one, then why can't I?). I also think that some board members who have earned avatars the easy way then think they get to talk as much shit about who and what they want freely, because that avatar somehow gives them immunity or seniority around here. Guess what? It doesn't.
And I know, I know, it's easy for me to say, cause I didn't "earn" mine (through conventional or unconventional means). But I'm not here to download, or upload or post porn, I'm here to help play dungeon master in this crazy world we've created.
I'm crawling back into my hole now.
</end rant>
__________________ Not again you fucking assholes....