Originally posted by: BrikHaus81
The thing I don't get about "I'm leaving" threads is: why even post them? If there is even one ounce of doubt that you may return, why do it? Why not just stop visiting the site altogether, and then if you decide to return it's no big deal since you didn't post some lame going away thread. What is wrong with people?

Unfortunately I think it is partially due to a need for validation and recognition as a member of the community.

They write them, then check back every couple of days to see if there are any "Please don't leave, we love you and miss you," comments.

Usually they find no such thing and come back under a different name.