[QuickSilver]

From what I understand, the thank you threads are mandatory.

For me, I only pick up packages every ten days or so, and I would hate to feel like I could be breaking a rule if I happened to not pick up an SB's package for a while (I know that happened this GE). I know from the other side that once you send the package, you are waiting on pins and needles to see what the recipient says. On the other hand, if someone says they posted a package, and then waits two weeks to open it and say thank you, will the stress/anticipation be any less? I feel like then a few people might say it's rude, and then we'll end up with a rule that you MUST pick up your package and thank your buddy within 3 days, and it will end up feeling forced.

I think by making it a "rule", what is really happening is that someone can be banned from future GEs for breaking it, right? Do we really want to ban someone for posting a "whiny" thread?

I think maybe an extra sticky on GE ettiquette could be good, just as guidelines for first-timers and to help people be aware of topics that could potentially get heated.

I was in favor of a maximum spending limit before, but I think that was maybe because I felt so stressed about it the first time I was in, and because I suspected I had the same buddy who had me - I felt like it would be really embarrassing to give her a gift that was much more modest than what she gave me. But it ended up working out really well. This time, I didn't feel so much like "oh, that was a bank gift, I better keep up!".

This is a long way of saying I agree with Toy's post.