I honestly feel that assuming that any change will cause an additional burden on the moderators is somewhat disingenuous, and even if it were true (which we simply do not know), it would not be an adequate reason to dismiss the desires of whole other group of FlyerTalkers totally out of hand.

To begin with, we have in the past changed and even added to our available smilies with no adverse results as I recall. Secondly, what would be the problem with creating a group of image monitors? That would give everybody what they wanted.

The people who wanted images could see them. The people who didn't could turn them off. There would be no additional burden placed upon the existing modertors. Everybody could be happy.

I truly don't understand the source of conflict here. This is a situation where everyone's needs can be met if we are willing to work together in good faith.