that's just the way the system works right now so you've got to either stick with it or try something else

I think this statement is important. There are great things about the system (and the not so great things), and that is just how it works (at least at this moment in time). Who knows? It could get better or worse in the future. I hope for the better.

When I first joined the Steem community, I only viewed "quality" posts as a viable reason for earning. Of course, quality is subjective based on the individual.

As I have engaged the community more, I have realized that there are a lot of other categories of people who are trying to get a return on their investment:

• early adopters
• financial investors
• curators
• developers
• existing brands and communities
• bloggers/vloggers
• and the list goes on

Each group of people (and the countless more who will join us) come to the table with different perceptions. And part of the challenge is finding common ground with each other.

We should be thankful for the blessing of earning, stand next to our friends who walk beside us in the community, support new development and progress, and invite others to join.

Upvotes are nice, but there is more. We can't forget that!