Adrox, not sure I know what kind of butt-kissing circle you talk about? It's good to be nice to people and tell'em what you like about them! It's called politeness & appreciation!
It's only 'butt-kissin' if it's hypocrisy and you don't really mean it, as far as I know? Otherwise, it's just plain good communication skills that everyone can learn, no?
Also, most people here get so much negative flak in RL, so it's good to combat it with some constructive or positive stuff? You may not know it, some people have posted in threads (that you might not have read) and said bad things about themselves, and it may be helpful to try to 'overwrite' those negative opinions with positive attitude!!
There are some people who may know each other better and comment more or talk more.. I'm fairly new here and while it does take some time to get to know people (like in real life!) I don't think there are any 'invisible walls' one couldn't climb (over or under)? Give it time and if you are genuine and mean well this'll show..
I think the problem is that so many new people can start exactly the same posts that you have answered a few times already - maybe it would be good to have a few posts FOR THE NEWBIES - 'please read before you post'?
Daydream, sorry to hear you feel ignored.. Maybe just try to jump in and join the fun? (In the story thread or wherever?)
If there is a long thread with lots of responses it's only natural you can reply to some, and not to everyone, especially if the opinions are similar..
Or some people post stuff that you don't really know what to say, and you may think about it for a few days, and by that time the thread may be 'lost'..?
So you reply to a few that stand out.. It's impossible to reply to EVERYTHING.. It would be more than a full-time job for a few professionals!!

And we don't get paid for posting here, as far as I know moderators are volunteers too, who share their time and good will.. (I've been half-moderator elsewhere before so I know it can be tough sometimes! They deserve any appreciation that comes their way!!)
And everyone here can make the board better!! It's not just 'waiting for others' - go ahead and talk to people in threads by quoting them, and if they respond in a nice way or you see common interests befriend them or ask people stuff or whatever!
