Credit where credit due though. I've been through the J lounge 7 times since the guest rule changed on April 15th and I have seen a world of (positive) difference. Where it used to be nearly impossible to find a seat if you got there after 615am, I have found multiple seating options available recently. Same thing for the late night dinner rush between 11pm and 1am. It actually makes me (as a Gold who travels primarily without a companion) view the removal of the guest benefit in a somewhat positive light.

(This view will undoubtedly change the next time I fly with a non-status colleague and have to spend my layover sitting in the concourse or food court.)