It's a client issue. I've noticed some clients only fetch a few relays, typically the fastest ones, even if you have more than 20 configured. For instance, the #noStrudel client by default only checks the 4 fastest ones. Sometimes, your note may not be included in any of these selected relays and will result in it not being displayed in that specific case. I assume #Primal functions similarly. I tested on #Snort and your note appeared correctly, but on noStrudel didn't (unless I configured it to fetch all relay). 

 It’s a fucking nightmare for users. Something as basic as a reply should work and it’s unacceptable that it doesn’t. 

 Absolutely agree. New #Nostr users might not have this knowledge. Clients should stop worrying about new features and focus on fixing core functionality. If they only check 4 relays for performance reasons or whatever, that's a terrible implementation. I prefer if it loads slowly rather than it missing some notes. 

 💯 if you have relays configured, it should use all those relays. There’s a reason you added them in the first place. And from there the client can make suggestions for how a user can change their settings.