I haven't been here very long, so wasn't here before the "thanks" function was added, but I personally enjoy it. I also agree (being a member of various other forums as well) that it takes away the need to post short "great post" posts.
I guess I do sort of use it as a "like" button, to appreciate the posts of others, and the few times that I have been thanked so far for my own posts felt pretty good.
