^ Yes I still very much am remaining cynical and pessimistic, but least now compared to the last 20 years there is a huge increase in the probability of new Star Wars movies being faithful to the originals while adding new lore and memorable moments to the saga.
After the prequels, I more or less realized I was worn out on the brand. Since then it's become even more watered down. But for the first time in quite a while, I personally feel optimistic about something. I haven't had the slightest interest in anything (Clone Wars, other EU, games, etc.) for quite awhile. What brought me to OT.com last year was all the discussion about the blu-rays, changes, SE vs UOT, etc. I hadn't thought about SW like that for a few years.
Honestly, I sound like a Lucas hater, but the best thing to happen to Star Wars seems to be him stepping aside. I don't hate the man. I just think that the more he tightened his grip on the franchise, the more chances and opportunities to create better stories slipped through his fingers.