"Merkle just helps its friends"

How many times do I have to repeat that most users and developers on Farcaster did not know Varun or myself prior to joining Farcaster.

And in some cases have *become* friends because they stuck around early on when no one else cared. We've spent years with this people socializing on this social network. :)

Don't conflate something that's earned / built with cronyism.

There are teams worth questioning, this isn't one of them imo. I didn't know them before, it's not fair to say I know them now. All I've seen from them is a dedication to a mission paired with a deep respect and appreciation for the complexity involved in the human dynamics of their project, which looks hilariously difficult to me. 

There are ways to be critical about a product and not be shitty. The most effective way to illicit change is by being skillful in criticism. If you make it about the person you're just wasting valuable oxygen.

@backpack put a bank in your pocket and use your money whenever, wherever, however without permission

/backpack
/notdevin
icebreaker.xyz/notdevin

Respectful and dedicated team deserving of admiration. Effective criticism is key for improvement