I take frequent and extended breaks from FFXI. I've quit altogether twice. But it's the community that keeps me coming back.. I actually enjoy it when I take a break, no more coming to events on time, no more grinding to get exp, or grinding through farming.
Seriously, the only reason I play anymore is cause of the community... so long as FFXIAH stayed here and all the players too, I wouldn't care if FFXI shutdown. I got personal contact information outside of FFXI for all the people I care about.