FR is not just your avocation, Jim. It is the avocation that we FReepers all share.
I don't look at my monthly contribution as a gift, nor a requirement. I look at it as an investment. My concern is for my children. Seeing the direction the country was going, especially during the clinton years was what turned me from a mere political junkie to a sign-carrying protestor. FR provided the rallying point for all of us to band together and accomplish a LOT in the past 4 years!
I sincerely thank you and John for FR. The country is a better place because of FR, and the Robinsons!
Through FReep Mail, Grampa Dave and I expressed the same sentiments. Our country would be leaderless at this stage if it weren't for Free Republic.