BigLar, BonzaiFlyer, thanks for the assistance. I appreciate the thoughts, but I was just hoping there was some backdoor way to requalify for NW using MR. Having weighed the difference, I think I'm switching from NW to Delta this year for my airline program.

As for the OP's situation / posting, tcook052 - I think you're correct in not requalifying. As BigLar alluded to, the benefits are mostly in the ability to acquire points more quickly. In my 50+ nights this year, I've gotten upgraded to a Jr Suite for one night. I have gotten "upgrades" to the concierge floor, but that's both not available for Silver and, in my opinion, not a real upgrade. Overall, I find that Marriott's service has been good, whether I was a general member, Silver or Platinum. If I were to leave aside the ability to accumulate points more quickly, I'd say that the value of Silver vs. no status is minimal.