Southern,

Welcome to the Board. I believe you found plenty of encouragement already, but I'll add my two cents as well. You have a mighty fine beard, and you have it shaped well. The neckline looks good.

I concur with paying your stache dues and letting it grow. I know, I know, it drives you nuts, but it really does get better as it get longer. And it will make your beard look even better.

Here is all you need to know about a longer stache: here