To be honest, I don't like some aspects of the merit system. The only reason I am going out of my way to post regularly is because I want to be able to use avatars. I am usually a person of little words, and I feel like making people post so much is just taking up more server space.
Being able to use an avatar or link in signature is a privilege and every member should be ready to contribute something for it. Most of the forums require you to pay money for getting those privileges but it is completely free here.
No one wants you to post more to get merits. Short posts which are to the point and constructive can also get merits.