Short answer, yes. Think about it like registering for a website somewhere. Sometimes it takes a bit for the confirmation email to arrive. “subscription pending” means it is waiting to finalize the link to the other instance.
It is a “side effect” of this federated network. If you subscribe to a local thread, it is instant. Going to something non-local takes a bit.
I used a secretlab Titan for 6 years. Currently looking to replace it, but that’s only because the faux leather is starting to peel away. Really solid investment, super comfy.
For OP, I likely tried the $1400 chair that was recommended (Steelcase Gesture) and just sent it back. Decent chair but just didn’t work for me.