I mean, really, really suck. As a result, I tend to proffer thanks for boons privately, generally in a gruff mumble, followed by a joke and, "Let's get a drink."
But tonight I have to offer a very loud and public "Thank you" to a member of this community.
Tonight I opened my email box to find a message from "donotreply@dailykos.com," telling me that a member here had paid for a lifetime subscription to DKos.
I don't know whether he wishes to be named publicly, so, for now, I won't (because I'm even suckier at "I'm sorry" and will avoid it if I can). I can tell you that he is not only a very wise person, but a gentle--and powerful strong--soul. He bought me this gift because he felt that I had helped him through a damned rough time some years back.
Crazy, I know, the thought that a few very carefully thought-out words from a stranger could mean so much.
But that's the way it is. Sometimes the word of one we have never met can bring just the comfort or inspiration or courage we thought we'd lost, or never had to begin with.
And that is why I am so very, very grateful to this fine man, and to all the fine men and women here, why I support Markos' drive for subscribers and revenue: because this place, this shouteteria, this waaahfest, schoolhouse, funhouse, pie fight stadium and animal photo gallery is a place I know I can always come and find fighters and fellows.
And friends.
Please, my friend, accept my thanks for your much too generous gift. It means more than I can say.
And to all of you, my fellows, my fighters, my friends, thank you as well.
Markos made this place. Years ago. You make it what it is every day. You have no idea what a gift you give.