Further to the post from Mord, I just wanted to add that there seems to be a perception that being a moderator is a good thing.
In conversation, a few people I think would make a sterling job of it have resisted such a role, recognising that the task is not necessarily an easy one and might erode the pleasure they take from participating here.
I've been here a couple of years and have seen a few people given mod status, some of whom rarely post any more and one of which voluntarily relinquished their role, and whether that's due to life pressures or other reasons, it needs pointing out that becoming a mod would dramatically alter your relationship with these forums. Changing it from one where you can come here and post all sorts of stuff to your heart's content, (almost) regardless of the consequences to one of coming here and doing some work.
You think it's an easy life? Getting embroiled in arguments, cleaning up after all the crap that goes on, being on your best behaviour, carefully diplomatic not to take sides when needed? I would imagine that the qualities that this demands is so far from an ego-trip that, as has been pointed out, those who ask almost automatically rule themselves out.
Sooner or later, some more moderators will be appointed and you can bet your bottom dollar that they'll come from the ranks of those who have made themselves useful around here and have displayed the necessary patience and skills necessary to do the job.
So hats off to those who put the time and effort in. And no, this is emphatically not an application...
