Thank you for your reply Dennis. Glad you liked it. And that annoying reality, right?

A large cluster of microservices is still complex as hell. Large is large, however you architecture it. But at the same time, there are many ways to use what is already there (instead of inventing your own solution) or to say no to what isn't actually necessary. I know its not that simple in real life; I've been part of those projects too.

I don't know your clients. But maybe they exemplify the mirroring hypothesis. Is that not a reason to at least move in the right direction, rather than accepting that its a bridge too far and thus not possible? Will these clients be able to remain competitive if they do what they've always done?

I like the realistic take you offer. Based on our earlier interactions, I also know that you agree with the idealism that I propose in this post. I'm just adding some thoughts to your comment. I think its not either/or, but both - yes descaling is hard, but its also something your clients can (and should?) aim for. One step at a time is good enough, right?