> but we were too lazy

This is unnecessarily dismissive and contributes to what makes HN a toxic place for discussions. They've already addressed the reasons.

Point taken. However, the part about "why not kubernetes" reads:

[...] we started adding ever-more complex layers of logic to operate our services.

As an example, Kubernetes allows [...] this can get quite confusing [...].

[...] this can lead to tight, implicit coupling between your project and Kubernetes.

[...] it’s tempting to go down that path and build unnecessary abstractions that can later bite you.

[...] It takes a fair amount of time and energy to stay up-to-date with the best practices and latest tooling. [...] the learning curve is quite steep.

So in short "it is complex so this and that may happen if you don't learn it properly".

Ok, this reasoning applies a-priori to any tool.

Not every tool is equally complex or requires the same amount of learning. K8s has a reputation for being really high on the scale, so a reasonable team could consider it and then decide to use something less complex.