I don't think it's that easy to reach legendary as you are framing it, I think you have that view because you got most of your merits from the Bitcointalk Art Compition and it not that easy to earn 1000 merit's anyways. I am sure many would agree.
You nailed it mate. Gaining 1000 merit is a bit frustrating considering we are not all a thread starter here and many are not good to bring creative idea that will gain merit.
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@OP, Please consider that this is a forum and not some kind of organization. We are here to share opinions and knowledge and spending here enough time is reasonable to rank up.
If you really think that ranking system is very easy to attain. Why not you request to theymos to X2 your required merit to rank up so that you will find it more challenging. You are thinking base on your personal status and didn't consider the general condition.