Man, three and a half years is a very impressive time. I, too, once made a mistake, but the forum was merciful to me. I don't know your future. However, I see those new people who create new accounts week after week. And yet the forum allows them to do this since they are still alive.
I am not calling for breaking the rules, but I have a sincere doubt that people who are passionate about being on the forum will wait three and a half years. During this time, you can become another legend.