Cheers for the plug!Killer has done a great job following Amiga in producing a Guild which follows these values.
Nemetos turned into something I never imagined and I couldn't cope with it so I handed it over to Killer and he's done an amazing job - Nemetos is probably the 3rd or 2nd strongest guild on the server? Hence the amount of applications you guys get every day.
I whole heartedly agree with your selection process - accepting everyone for a trial would be unmanageable, so why not choose people who have the best gear? If they turn out to be dreadful/unlikeable players I suspect they'd get their marching orders irrespective of their great gear.
We have other games in the TNGC that aren't gear dependant, i.e. EvE and Planestide. Starwolf would happily accept a BR1 player if they are likeable fellows and I know for a matter of fact a few Nemetos players would not be accepted, even though they play almost 24hrs a day - why should it not be the other way round? People suit certain games. People suit certain outfits. The main thing is that MOST people suit the TNGC and once in, they can find an outfit/game that suits them.
We are all unique, lets not argue about our differences. Instead, we should celebrate our common interests, i.e. the wonderful world of Online Gaming!
P.S. I still feel an immense pride when I think about my two WoW guilds, Nemetos Order and Beltain Lords. You may belong to another, but I'll always belong to you - I hope someday my name shall be spoken with pride in your great halls.