NightlyReminders' Ban Appeal

I was banned, along with 5 others, for using an exploited chest shop bug. I know when it happened and where it happened, and I admit I was not thinking at the time. I still have item I stole, and would be more than happy to give it back, as I see no use in having even stole it. I'm not sure of the exact month it happened, but I do remember it was a while back. I was inexperienced on the server and not too aware of the consequences, but I did know it was wrong, I admit that one. I was going to ask if stealing it was illegal, because I was still a mining world noob, and I saw the sign in the mining world saying "Griefing and stealing is allowed here," but unfortunately, I was not aware that there were such things as mods and admins, at the time. I am asking that this ban gets shortened, even if it's a week or two, but I do understand that, since my "reputation" on the server is not fantastic with most, that I might be ignored. However, if I could have someone answer why it's a perma-ban after such a long period of time, that would be great. Thanks.