I have read all the rules guiding the forum and spent days getting myself familiar with how things work here
Did you read all the rules actually? Very few newbies care to read rules and read all rules, I don't know. If you did, you are very good newbie.
your advice and opinions on how to be a responsible member of bitcointalk are all am seeking.
Start with two topics and with them you will find more topics to read. If you think content of any topic is above your level, skip it and choose one looks to be good for you.
Newbies - Read before posting[GUIDES] on Bitcointalk. Index thread.