I think I need to say something about this. For several weeks I’ve been receiving regular emails notifying me of “pledges” to send me money if I enable payments. I’ve been shooting my mouth off, offering my views to one and all, for most of my life. Being offered money for behavior I seem unable to control is a new experience. I’m humbled by these expressions of appreciation, which I truly do value, even as I’m gratified to see readership continuing to grow. And yet I just don’t feel able to accept money, even though I’m sure Substack would prefer that I did. It’s a bit hard to explain why I shouldn’t do so. Perhaps I’m afraid of taking myself over seriously, or of subtly succumbing to greed. Whatever the reason, reading the informed commentary is reward enough. But thanks, all the same.
I think I understand your feelings here and know you are placing the importance of the discussion and actions spurred by such work, over the value of $'s. It is who I thought you were after reading you for past 3 years. While I would not fault you for taking subscriptions I also applaud you for ascribing to a higher purpose for your efforts. America is better for patriots such as you ( and your family as they allow the time spent on this). We will get through these times, different I'm sure but hopefully stronger for the future our children face. Finding out that Mary is a Pour-Over fan was great news. I roast my own and enjoy a pour-over everyday. Have to balance the crazy with the sublime..My Best - Dave
Yes, Meaning in History is a labor of love. I know first hand.
And, in addition to writing, he provides 24 hour nursing service to those of us who have had recent knee surgery. And he makes the best pour-over coffee in the entire world!
My personal thanks to the members of this community for their thoughts, prayers and well-wishes during my recent recuperation. You are a lovely bunch of caring thoughtful people. Thank you.
Thank you Mark for all that you do. As with most here I would gladly pay to participate in what has become a daily ritual for me. Your references and insight are invaluable as are the comments from many who have been with you since well before substack. I understand your not wanting to accept payment for what you do. I do the same in my profession although it is not a daily commitment as you have taken on.
It seems that the reason you have struck a chord with so many here is that you have a knack for zeroing in on what's important whether it's politics, geopolitics, science, medicine, etc., and finding the right references to add to our understanding.
I started on Blogger in 2007. I blogged there until 2012, although I never had a huge audience. I did leave it up, and got back to writing some in the last few years after I retired. But I recently followed your example and moved to Substack. I was even able to bring my past posts along. Already I have almost as many subscribers as I did followers on Blogger. And while I don't know that Google was censoring my blog (I am a Christian and a political conservative), it did seem hard to find my blog by searching.
Like you, I am not in it for the money. In fact, after being self-employed since 1975, I kind of like not having to fill out Schedules C and SE on my taxes. So I am cheering you on and following your example on this matter.
You’re a rare bird flying with the eagles  and watching over the homeland 
Your insight into who, and what is controlling the FBI as we go through a major turning point in history will be most appreciated - The politics are going to be far-reaching - see you on the other side
I look forward to your pieces, and read every one. Could it be that you may think-as I would in your shoes-that accepting pledges might make you feel somehow beholden to those paying?
Interesting and concerning. I have noticed within the last week or two that several other Substack authors have started charging for their content. It does not seem coincidental. It is concerning in that I would like to think that integrity and objectivity are more easily maintained without money as a consideration; on the other hand, there is a value to both time and integrity. Mark, if you were to start charging I would not discount your opinions nor begrudge you the time you spend on sharing them - it is a matter of your track record and the value of what you say. That is of course with the understanding that money is not the motivator for you. After all, money is not the evil, the love of money is. Thanks for all you do, regardless. And if you wish to start charging at any point, I will be there with you.
Brilliant and talented people should never feel uncomfortable asking for any kind of support to continue providing what people want/need. You're doing us all a solid. Worth it!
"Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. " Proverbs 23:23
You have chosen a good model. Some full-time professional Christian counselors I know don't charge for their insight; they trust that God will take care of them. So, mega dittos!
I have to say this has become one of my favorite sites. Lots of interesting commentary on many different subjects and writers. Plus if I'm short on time I just read your exert and when I have more time or am interested in the subject I read the linked article. I have looked for a donation link before. Thanks for all you do here.
Mark,
I think I understand your feelings here and know you are placing the importance of the discussion and actions spurred by such work, over the value of $'s. It is who I thought you were after reading you for past 3 years. While I would not fault you for taking subscriptions I also applaud you for ascribing to a higher purpose for your efforts. America is better for patriots such as you ( and your family as they allow the time spent on this). We will get through these times, different I'm sure but hopefully stronger for the future our children face. Finding out that Mary is a Pour-Over fan was great news. I roast my own and enjoy a pour-over everyday. Have to balance the crazy with the sublime..My Best - Dave
I'll keep this simple by expressing a heartfelt thank you for keeping your posts free. I enjoy reading your perspectives on these topics.
Mark, as so many others have said, thanks so much for what you do, both in delivering content and giving keen commentary. Much appreciated!
Yes, Meaning in History is a labor of love. I know first hand.
And, in addition to writing, he provides 24 hour nursing service to those of us who have had recent knee surgery. And he makes the best pour-over coffee in the entire world!
My personal thanks to the members of this community for their thoughts, prayers and well-wishes during my recent recuperation. You are a lovely bunch of caring thoughtful people. Thank you.
Continued prayers for healing and happy driving!
Continued wishes for safe recovery!!
Thank you Mark for all that you do. As with most here I would gladly pay to participate in what has become a daily ritual for me. Your references and insight are invaluable as are the comments from many who have been with you since well before substack. I understand your not wanting to accept payment for what you do. I do the same in my profession although it is not a daily commitment as you have taken on.
It seems that the reason you have struck a chord with so many here is that you have a knack for zeroing in on what's important whether it's politics, geopolitics, science, medicine, etc., and finding the right references to add to our understanding.
A true Masterclass for our time.
Thank you.
I started on Blogger in 2007. I blogged there until 2012, although I never had a huge audience. I did leave it up, and got back to writing some in the last few years after I retired. But I recently followed your example and moved to Substack. I was even able to bring my past posts along. Already I have almost as many subscribers as I did followers on Blogger. And while I don't know that Google was censoring my blog (I am a Christian and a political conservative), it did seem hard to find my blog by searching.
Like you, I am not in it for the money. In fact, after being self-employed since 1975, I kind of like not having to fill out Schedules C and SE on my taxes. So I am cheering you on and following your example on this matter.
A reader helped me transfer my previous blog post to Substack.
You’re a rare bird flying with the eagles  and watching over the homeland 
Your insight into who, and what is controlling the FBI as we go through a major turning point in history will be most appreciated - The politics are going to be far-reaching - see you on the other side
You are a rare man indeed Mr Wauck. Would that our body politic were inhabited by such as you and our world would be a better place.
I look forward to your pieces, and read every one. Could it be that you may think-as I would in your shoes-that accepting pledges might make you feel somehow beholden to those paying?
Mark, you're not only a wonderful and much respected commentator, but you're a gentleman too.
You are humble and lovable Mark.
That’s lovely.
Interesting and concerning. I have noticed within the last week or two that several other Substack authors have started charging for their content. It does not seem coincidental. It is concerning in that I would like to think that integrity and objectivity are more easily maintained without money as a consideration; on the other hand, there is a value to both time and integrity. Mark, if you were to start charging I would not discount your opinions nor begrudge you the time you spend on sharing them - it is a matter of your track record and the value of what you say. That is of course with the understanding that money is not the motivator for you. After all, money is not the evil, the love of money is. Thanks for all you do, regardless. And if you wish to start charging at any point, I will be there with you.
Brilliant and talented people should never feel uncomfortable asking for any kind of support to continue providing what people want/need. You're doing us all a solid. Worth it!
"Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. " Proverbs 23:23
You have chosen a good model. Some full-time professional Christian counselors I know don't charge for their insight; they trust that God will take care of them. So, mega dittos!
I have to say this has become one of my favorite sites. Lots of interesting commentary on many different subjects and writers. Plus if I'm short on time I just read your exert and when I have more time or am interested in the subject I read the linked article. I have looked for a donation link before. Thanks for all you do here.