Right - my problem is, I didn't get status from nights. I seem to have some combo of matching or credit card spend or something else, which I cannot precisely identify. Nor can the CSRs.

So, given that I don't know on what basis I have status, I have no idea how long it'll last.

If, for example, I knew I'd lose it at the end of this program year, I might push for spend on the Amex CC to try to get it again for next year. Or I might make reservations at non-Marriott properties for next year.

Just too much ambiguity. Status isn't really worth much if you don't have an idea of how long it will be in force.