@jkb I seem to recall at least one usenet FAQ suggesting the lurking period to be 30 days. Can you imagine? That seems very resonable in this type of federated system, where each instance is likely to have its own norms, customs, and culture.

Hang out. Start slow. Maybe you'll like the company, maybe you won't. Maybe a different instance will be a better fit.

(Note: I just jumped in, tho', so ...)