Exactly, you've said it and proved it so far. Speed ​​only depends on how the quality of the post is and how much impact your contribution has on forum users. You will most likely get a higher merit than your activity points if your quality is better and also if lots of people are paying attention to you. Fast or slow doesn't matter, but the more you try to do better the more likely it will be for you to complete the journey for the first 1000 merit.

Pandu Geddon, 100 merit I don't think is a very high amount for you to reach. I know your quality, so don't worry about it. Keep up your mind and quality.