Honestly, reading this entire thread, especially the last few posts, gave me a nice warm fuzzy feeling. I have a habit of letting people p*ss me off, and in doing so it's easy to let simple misunderstandings escalate (kinda like Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr.). I have to say that it was very heartening to see the way this entire exchange proceeded.

I have several strops. I'm not desperate for another, but I have every intention of seeking out a TM strop later. For now, I don't want or need to buy a TM strop that is needed more by someone else. I want to buy one both to experience his craftsmanship and to support his continued efforts--later. For now, I'll wait.

I lost my mother last year without any warning. Dealing with the aftermath with family members has continued to be difficult. I don't know Tony personally, but from what I have read of his posts and in his website, he is an honorable and decent person. I wish him the best in his difficult time.

Benjamin, if you'd like to hold off on buying a strop until you can get one from Tony, I will gladly loan you one of my old basic leather/linen strops. Send me a PM and I will get it out in the mail immediately.