I appreciate the kind words. You know, things have changed. Its due to the age of the band, the fact that theres no new material to discuss, Lindseys firing and the changing nature of the internet, which has given us so many new, alternate platforms. And weve changed too. The Ledge will never be like it was. The current tone may not be the new normal. Maybe were still evolving into whatever the new normal is, but the old normal is NEVER returning.
There are different ways to be a fan and Im just not the glowy, positive vibe type of fan. I never have been. I am the Why in the devil did Kristen put that picture of Lindsey on the cover of Gift of Screws?? type of fan. I will always complain.
Viv mourned Lindsey for 2 months. I will mourn him until I DIE. Save for death, there is no end in site. Its a permanent thing. I never stopped wanting Christine back. I cried in concert when the other two performed without her, right up until her return and she was (at the time) only my third favorite.
Happiness is a ephemeral. You never feel the same joy you did when something great happens for the first time, but sadness and loss remain fresh every time you recall whats gone. The pain renews itself. I cannot pretend that the heart ache falls away. Its never ending.
Lets just be glad that for those who seek them, there are worship grounds like you mentioned. People can readily find whatever type of place that feels like home to them.