Hmm, where to start. First let me say that I have not been put off being on the forums or indeed the whole geocaching sport as a result of the discussion on here. I only tried to point out how other newbies like myself might feel. Anyway, although I may have not come across like it, I am fairly thick skinned and not easily offended
I would like to say to Keith B that my opening paragraph of my first post was a summary of bits and pieces that have been mentioned in a few posts, not just your own (the freeloading bit came from a different one). I hasten to add though that indeed I have misinterpreted your word choice of 'takers' and after re-reading your post it has become clear that you didn't use it as a derogatory term and I apologise for that error.
And yes, I do agree as stated by others that forums are there for opinions to be voiced whether I like them or not, after all that is what they are there for and everyone has the right to their own opinion. However, acknowledging that fact it should also be acknowledged that people might get upset, annoyed or aggravated and as long as they keep responses on a non-personal, unthreatening way, then I believe this is a right that should be honoured as much as the right to have a certain point of view.
To end this rather tedious post of mine I just wanted to add that I don't have a problem with paying and might well do so in future but I think this should be decided on a personal level and not because I feel pressurised in doing so . Oh, and just to say thanks to all the nice welcomes that I have received. It surely is much appreciated