When I see that a number of posters have used the thumbs-up button for a post, I assume that the post has been recommended as a good read.  Sometimes it's used to indicate that the post has a high level of information or discussion; sometimes it's used as a vote of confidence or agreement; and other times it's used to show appreciation for kind words or good humour. All good reasons, IMHO.

For the posts that have no 'thumb' indication, I tend to look at the source and make my decision to read or not to read.  I have learned to skip the posters that cause me angst.  One gets to know who these posters are over time  :-) 

I have become more of a "lurker" than a poster these days.  (This is another term that I hate).   I do not feel that I have much to offer in terms of information; others are much more knowledgeable than I. I was called a "cheerleader" some time ago, as if that was a bad thing.  Well, I'm still cheering, but it's from the shadows. 

GO PATRIOT !!!!

Cherry