You can sit here all day if you want and discuss with yourself whether or not I deserve merit. My point is, that I was 8 activity away from getting Full Member 2 weeks ago, then this update came out, and now I am months, maybe even years from getting Full Member. This update might be good for some users that are already high up in ranks, but for others, it is nearly impossible.
Don't you think if the admin feels that the current system is too harsh for the members, he will make some changes. He already ensured that the old members do not suffer otherwise he should have made everyone start from fresh.