That's really nice of you to say -- and I appreciate it. Just to set the record straight, however, I was not banned, only suspended temporarily by a Moderator. I know it seems like a matter of semantics, but, because there has been a lot of talk of banning on this thread, perhaps others on the board would be interested to know the distinction:
Suspension: Temporary, 1 to 7 days
Banning: Permanent
Nuking: Permanent, with posts deleted (example: Michael Rivero)
From Jim and John's comments I have read on some very informative explanatory threads, I believe I am correct in saying that Moderators don't have the ability to ban people, only suspend.
My fervent wish is to never again have to experience that secret and ineffable joy of watching my friends festoon FreeRepublic threads with "Free Silly!" balloons.