I spent four years as a UA gold without a single upgrade. When it did finally happen ORD-SFO my meal was a plate of tepid nuts and the beverage service was two glasses of wine from a milk carton.
With the new mileage earning charges, I now book flights just based on price. So far I am much happier. This week alone UA lost $2,000 of revenue from me. Somehow I'll still probably be a gold next year thanks to SAS and ANA.