I, too, like to use the grey, but since for some it is difficult for them to read, I try to just leave it on my name, and not my typed text. As for those who use grey, especially non-bolded, well, I don't have to put them on ignore, as if what they say is too hard to read, I just don't try to read it. Unfortunate, but true.

As for the red/orange, if someone isn't chatting very often, I try to see if I can get away with it (being in chat with it) I really do. Sometimes I suffer but I realize it was my choice.

I don't like to offend anyone, and if I'm not feeling really confident to begin with, I might not bother with asking. I've missed chats I wanted to be in because of this decision.

I do understand identifying with the font color, and needing the extra ego support in forming/showing who you are... and in a way it's kewl.

There are a lot of colors there, and I'm sure some mathematician could give us how many different combinations we have available, even without some of the triggering ones. As for the light colors, some of them seem to fluoresce on me, and I don't know if that happens with others, or if that's a result of my eye surgery this year. Can't recall if they did that last year.

I want to communicate with others when I go to chat... communication... a sent and received and understood message. If changing my font color or effect helps that process, I'll give it a whirl!