I'd like to amend my previous post by apologizing, for:
1. calling the author Patrick, and
2. not recognizing him as a member of the ASF and a major contributor to one of its projects.

Given that, he can say "get it for free" if he damn well pleases :)

As to my quibble, let me add:
On the other hand, I suppose it can still be a benefit to open source projects if some people "get it for free", in that it increases the user base, which might draw more attention to the project from those who may be in a position to contribute to it.

Hopefully there's a balance that ensures the ongoing viability of any worthwhile project.

Good points. Cheers for ASF and the other organizations and individuals not mentioned.

I have one minor quibble:

Patrick says:
there's another choice in addition to "build it or buy it": get it for free.

Can we PLEASE stop saying "get it for free"?
How about saying:
there's another choice in addition to "build it or buy it": share it.

For FOSS to work, we ought to emphasize its "sharing"--not "free"--aspect. Ideally, one should at least "want" to contribute back to the community, whether or not one does.