I’ve been here 8 years, have only posted 5 threads and give quarterly donations.
Since this site is based on donations, I don’t think there should ever be a charge for new FReepers to post threads.
I do agree that there should be a ‘newbie’ time spell before they can post threads. If they join and have something vital to say they can post it on a current thread.
I’m not understanding your ‘one time nudge’ comment because no one is obliged to pay to post.
Just my thoughts.
I called it a one time thing
because it would be only at the very beginning—one time.
and a nudge
because there would not be any great penalty in not donating, just a few weeks’ delay in originating a new THREAD. They could still post comments to their heart’s content those first few weeks.
I think there’s some merit in getting new folks over the hump of making a first donation. I think after a first donation, it’s much more likely they’ll donate again. Many folks just need some help in breaking through the ice of going through whatever bother it is for them to donate that first time.
Just a human nature sort of thing, imho.