Now look at it from this angle,its not possible to be born today and start walking the same day,that was what was going on in this forum prior to this new merits system
 I don't think 1 merit is too much to get,it may take time,but when you've made 5 to 6 helpful posts it'll definitely come..
  It's not really about starting new threads that have been discussed over and over again,you can earn merits with insightful replies to already existing threads.
  And please try clearing spam posts,hardly will anyone give you merits when your history is filled with bounty shit.
  Good luck..