I was just saying to this a member in need today, how posts are all about sell sell sell and very little about helping members in need with questions. The FS threads get 15 responses while question threads or HELP ones get maybe 1 or 2. I have to google when I have a concern and get responses from 2006 and then need to research to make sure that response is still valid 12 years later... I think because everything is so expensive at the onset (tanks, equipment, husbandry, etc) we all tend to get a little selfish in our ways and time and keep our knowledge to ourselves. i'm lucky I am able to afford this hobby but it seems ridiculous to spend $200+ for some acrylic shaped as a cylinder with a pump attached to it and call it a "reactor" or "skimmer" or these lights nowadays. I bought a damn nori holder with a magnet on it for $25! Its a plastic sleeve and magnet. I mean seriously! Glass tanks from makers in NJ or FL that go for $5K for a simple 180G. Its pure madness.
it really is all about supply and demand. once people stop paying for WWC's newest SPS release for only $1200 and your first born child, prices will have to moderate.
i'll always remember going to members houses, like CharlieTuna or Fishman77 or TUSI and really engaging with them about their tanks and soaking up everything I could. It really was a joy. I've only just started to be able to invite other newbs over, like I was, and extend my hand out to them with tips or free frags or equipment and I encourage others here to do that if they are able and willing. it really helps grow this hobby.