I was planning on starting a thread later tonight, but here it is already. Thanks, budler.
I have always said that the card collecting hobby draws some of the best people to it. I think this site has drawn the best group of those hobbyists (i.e., the best of the best). I enjoy coming on here every day, and I enjoy "living in the IRs". I feel a great sense of satisfaction when I can click on "Mark as Resolved" after doing what was requested. And it's an even better feeling when someone takes the time to drop a note that says "Thanks!". But that's not the reason I do that. Read on.
When I was 11, a guy my dad worked with introduced me to the owner of a card shop. His photography is well-known in the card industry (his name is Bob Bartosz). Him and his wife Pat were absolutely fabulous to me. Their generosity to me was off the charts. They passed on their love for the hobby by being awesome people (as well as generous hobbyists). It was because of being involved with them that I later on wound up working for a card company for about 7 years. (And that saved me from having to work in a job doing work I really wouldn't have enjoyed.) The owner of that card company, who also took me under his wing, was VERY good to me for most of that time (the last couple months were a little rough, but they were probably rougher for him, in hindsight). Thanks to these people, my life is what it is. It's a great life. I'm surrounded by a wonderful wife and son. I meant it in another thread where I said I'm the luckiest guy on the planet. And maybe lucky isn't the right word. For those who have religious affiliations, blessed is the proper term. I have been blessed throughout my life with very good people and I would even say good fortune (though not the monetary kind of fortune). And now, I get to come to this site, which was set up by a very kind and intelligent man (Admin), who has been very generous to me as well. Always willing to take time out to discuss how to handle things, and to lend a helping hand to me. Additionally, by coming on here, I get to be surrounded by all of you great people. I am truly blessed.
So, for all of those reasons, I feel a draw to helping out the best way I can, whatever way that is. That's why when someone writes me with a "thanks" for handling their IR, I respond with "Happy to help." It's sincere. I am happy to help.
So, at this time of year, as many of us celebrate our various religious holidays, which are filled with joy, I want to take a minute to say to each of you:
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy New Year, and Happy Holidays to all. Enjoy these days. Reflect on the good you have in your life, and be grateful. And then live each day like that. From experience, I can tell you that you will be better off for it.
-- Dan --
Note: Please see my profile for more info regarding trading (section updated 3/4/2024). I have added a large portion of my inventory to the site, and currently have trading turned on (details are in my profile).