Perhaps it would be better to say that they deserve thanks, but you also have to take into account the time in which these donations happened - which was mostly at a time when the price of BTC was very low, and people were mining with their computers and for each block received as much as 50 BTC reward.
what are you saying in Essence?? That ofcourse anyone could donate because it was cheap?? Weren't they aware of the increase in value of the currency in the near future?? WHY DIDN'T YOU MINE AND DONATE YOURSELF since it was that easy?
The one thing that's certain is that they GAVE without regrets... I believe it's part of the forum's networth today.. apparently, you don't need to have much to give - it's all about how compassionate you are...
to the donators; y'all planted a seed that's been helpful... Y'all deserve some more accolade and respect - I believe that's the reason why y'all have 'em tags on.