Welcome Rod,
As far as leaving things alone, I hope not. The prices are way too high. I have been pondering giving up for a while. I pay a tier payment to somebody that has 6 sims and he has been considering giving it up too. I agree with the educational aspect and there are many non-profits that can benefit as well. With the prices so high I see people giving up all the time. When I explore I see empty shops everywhere. Sometimes there are sims with just a couple of merchants and many many empty buildings. SL has the potential to be even more awesome. I admit I have tried other grids and virtual worlds and SL is the best, however it is also very expensive. I would have given up months ago, because of the cost, if it were not for the people in my group helping to pay. I am sure there are many that feel the same way.
On a more positive note, I have seen many great creators that have low prices and lots of gifts. I have seen people pull together to help keep myself and others going, simply because they appreciate what is being done. I have a lot of hope of improvements and accomplishments.
Thanks Rod for answering the call,
Katrinaceleste Bravin