I main as an SCH. I've always played healing classes in MMOs and tried to stay as far away from tanking as possible. This is the first time I have actively tried tanking. So far I am only lvl 23, but I can see now what tanks have to go through.

You guys not only absorb mob damage, but the seemingly endless assaults from other players. Your ability to control aggro from all sources is amazing, and I thank you all for that.

As a healer I've never *had* to learn a dungeons mechanics. Typically I just follow behind everyone and watch health bars and avoid AoEs. As a tank I've had to gain a more detailed understanding of Dungeons and their respective bosses. Its quite surprising how many newer players (or even veterans) who don't know what they're supposed to do, or make frequent mistakes.

I've gotten into the habit of writing a series of macros (one for each boss fight that has some sort of fight gimmick) that explains in detail what the 'role' of each job is. Its helped quite a bit so far. Since I've started doing this before each boss fight, followed by a ready check, I've seen my number and wipes reduce and have received a number of thank-yous from players who were otherwise unaware.

You don't know what you don't know.

I am by no means an expert at tanking, and the fights I've had to deal with so far are hard to screw up, but it does happen from time to time. Baby Ifrit comes to mind. Its amazing how many people don't know the 'Nail' mechanic.

At any rate, I just wanted to pop in and express my gratitude toward those Tanks who go above and beyond. You guys are what makes the game great.