A lot has changed in our community over the past year, and I felt like it was a good time to share my thoughts. I never have and never will condemn anyone who takes a gambling sponsorship. I know how much these companies offer. Sometimes it really is almost too good to be true. Life-changing money, even for small creators. Personally, I have always politely declined. But I understand why people take it. What I can’t get behind is screaming from the rooftops “Don’t Gamble!” and “I will NEVER take a gambling sponsor” and then taking one as soon as times get a little 🤏 rough. The tough times in the CS2 market and the structural decline of the game over the past year have really brought out the worst in a lot of people in this community. Traders, players, content creators. Badge slop, engagement baiting, gambling sponsorships, drama. Hard times bring out the worst in people and show you who they really are. It’s easy to do well, be cheerful, and pretend to help others when times are good and money is flowing in. But it’s the hard times that show people’s true morals. That’s what we’re seeing now, and it’s sad how many community members have fallen off. I have never blocked and muted so many people on this platform as I have in the past few months. People I used to engage with. And I think that’s sad 🥀