I also originally joined in 1998 -- a little older than 2 1/2 years of age. But, later, due to a change in ISP and login troubles, I was obliged to rejoin in 2000.
Before the advent of FR, I thought I was the last conservative-thinking person in the country. I was surrounded by a media cacophony of left-wing news/opinion. Very lonely.
But then Free Republic happened. I learned I was indeed not alone.There were millions like me across the country. I owe this site and its founder a debt: a debt which I attempt to repay by courteous posting and regular contributions.
Take care, old timer.
Thank you for your kind words.
I grew up in a mostly UAW family in the Democrat crap hole known as Cleveland.
Thank God my Dad thought for himself. He watched William F. Buckley Jr’s Firing Line and I’d sit there with him.
Buckley fascinated me (a kid) because of his message, his (strange to me) accent and his vast knowledge of the English language. I was hooked.
I moved away from my lib relatives to an agricultural farm in the middle of nowhere where all my neighbors are, guess what? CONSERVATIVES!
God is good! All the time!