I am glad there is at least one graphics designer who knows how to take and make good use out of criticisms.  Responding to my comments about CSS Zen Garden, Don Ulrich writes:

"Graphic laden CSS, while dramatic for visual example can lack a clear message. As we use CSS and convey its usefulness through design we must consider that transparency has its own qualities." – AdventCode

Aye.  One can take a criticism like a fireball aimed to hurt you or a candle to illuminate what you couldn't see before.