Each year, the pool grows larger and the list grows shorter; it has reached a point where I've largely been absent for the most part, and know nobody new. But that only heightens my appreciation for those few whom I do know and like. My appreciation for Reborn (the game, the creators and the community) notwithstanding, these days I spend more time individually or in small groups with the people I have known through Reborn, than amidst the community itself. But while I may have 'moved on' from here in most senses of the term, I feel that i owe the community some consideration for being the institution through which I met these friends of mine, and that consideration merits upholding this tradition of a yearly commemoration. Shoutouts to Bibs, Arkhi, Azery and now Hycrox, all such friends of mine, for keeping this alive.
I never could manage sentimental speeches, nor do I think they're necessary given how well I know everyone on this list, and how well they know the regard I have for them. Many people on this list have been the best of friends for so long I can't even remember when and how we first met; others I have gotten to know more recently but have quickly become good friends too. Talking with each other frequently, and in many cases on an almost daily basis, has become a fact of life; familiarity and trust of that kind is invaluable.
Given that I find any more words to be both paltry and unneeded, enough of the heavy stuff, what? I'll contend myself with a mention and a joke apiece:
(thanks, Hycrox, for forcing me to strikethrough everything)
Lastly, since it's inevitable that I'd have inadvertently omitted a mention to someone or the other, let me say that you're all appreciated and that I'm grateful to have gotten to know you.