I don't normally post, but I just wanted to say that I also fully sympathize. I've done my best being a moderator, trying to be as patient and readily available as I know how, yet there will always be people who take every little thing as a massive slight against them and then they'll complain about "professionalism."

It's not a job. I'm not a professional. I don't get paid, but rather I pay into my site out of pocket (Jcink premium, site skin, etc). I'm doing the best I can, and trying to learn from my mistakes; to work on new skills every day to try and accommodate others. Yet, it's not good enough for some people (I say some, because I'd say a good chunk of RPers are a lot more understanding and forgiving while there'll always be those who will use anything as fuel to incriminate staff in some way). They still carry unrealistic expectations.

Then there comes a time where some people will expect a site to be exactly the way they want it when in reality, I - as a site creator - don't even get everything I want from the site I made. Why? Because I have to consider more than just one person, more than just me. I have to consider everyone.

I agree with the sentiment that we built our sites for ourselves and invite others into it. Personally, I do this to meet new people and make new friends. It's my social activity, my hobby, my downtime. When my downtime becomes as stressful (or even more stressful) than my actual job, there's a problem.

I also like architects, but I'm not sure if that eliminates the issue of "we're not paid," because some people will take it as the occupational definition which is paid. Still, it might be better than "staff" on its own. I think some people naturally have issues with "figures of authority," so something like "Architect" might help eliminate that "authoritative" vibe. I'm not sure.

I might try this out, though, as a social project and see if it helps any. If anyone else tries it, I'd be curious to hear about the results.