From what I've seen, this thread would be active for a bit then it would die down then active again and so on. I think most of the regulars here got their visas and it's up to the new people to find this thread and participate.
It would be great if we share timelines and experiences and give each other hope.
Having said that, I think December is a slow month so hopefully we'll get good news next month...I'm hoping for a speedy process and I pray for that.
Regarding the 40% that get declined, are they straight forward cases? if yes, then that's quite alarming.