Right, but they're not zero. The complaint here is that "I'm getting enough free stuff for me to continue to buy tickets from delta, but not as much free stuff as I used to get," right?
well I don't believe I ever used the term 'free stuff', that sounds like a political phrase I here people toss around regarding entitlement programs. I described upgrades as perks which Delta grants to me for reaching DM level. I think we both agree Delta has every right to take away or grant more perks. And if the perks degrade to a level that I no longer feel that I'm valued by Delta then I'll take my business else where.
Did I do a good job clearing up any of your concerns?