Rather than limit myself to copying what my idols do, being open minded about gear issues might bring me onto something I wouldn't have happened upon if I didn't have an open minded approach.
Im totally envious when I see someone with nice gear. If they can't play, then it's a bit dissappointing, and I can only imagine they bought for other reasons (read to brag, blah blah blah). But if they CAN play, then I'm doubly jealous. Some people have all the luck!