TW and I are at similar stages in life, and in my opinion the important issues here are loyalty and respect, as opposed to the technicalities of "upgrade" vs "transition" (if we were 22 year-olds fresh out of 'Riddle, then the situation might be different). Loyalty is a two-way street, and personally I would rather work as a crack-wh*** than give that kind of organization the satisfaction of begging for my old job back! Also, "when one door closes another one opens." For example, I know of a job possibility that I told TW about (although I don't know if he'll pursue it) that doesn't involve growing a long beard and wearing a turban.