From a former lurker/leacher -- now a registered member.
I've been involved with "fandom" for a long time. Even been paid for it via high profile positions that I dare not divulge here.
I've also been in love with
Star Wars since I first saw its theatrical trailers in front of
For the Love of Benji back in 1977.
Like everyone else who was around before "Episode IV" was even called "Episode IV", I eagerly anticipated the eventual return of
Star Wars. And, like most who were around back then, my love of the franchise...and hopes for its future...waned a bit once the prequels arrived.
About six months ago, I discovered this board -- finding people who think like I think, and shared my giddy, impatient passion for newly released information and merchandise. People whose paramount priority...above geeking out and flaming each other (which certainly happens here as well)...was to *share* what they'd found out, share what they'd seen, and even devote vast amounts of time/money/and effort to spread whatever sights, sounds, and knowledge they may have chanced across. This place is about more than fandom, it's about community. And compared to most on-line communities I've come across, this place is A-OK.
In the coming days and weeks, this era in
Star Wars history will draw to a close. By the end of the week, we should be getting a very strong sense of whether Lucas & Co. actually did "get it right this time" (to quote Rick McCallum).
Come what may, I just wanted to say THANK YOU for being the heroes and rogues that you are. You've made it fun to be a fan again, and even made it a little exciting -- no small accomplishment for a jaded old soul like me. It is very much appreciated.
Beowulf the Hamster
(...has a really cool Battle Hamster .gif he can't figure out how to upload, so use your imagination, I guess
)
