The real essence of labour is the harvest. In relation to the forum, the beginning stage is not easy as a newcomer needs to be patient. Atleast for a newcomer they should be getting no matter how little some reward for their resources in terms of time and materials. The harvest is the benefit (merit).
when I started discussing my activities and involvement in the forum to some people around me about it, the next question is," how much have u earned", I was absolutely discourage as I remained mute till date. I was seen as a mentor until they got to realise that no pay until time "proves u worthy".
Not sure what you meant, but I was here when there was still no merit system. What I did is just ask questions in the beginning, and when I learn how the forum operates and works to my advantage then it become like a home to me. I didn't look for campaign though to earn, I just try to play around here, and listen to other Senior that tie. I guess that's the problem though, others see this community as a way to earn. But in the that is the wrong mindset. Yes, obviously you can earn some here, but it should not the means to an end, specially if you are a newbie in this forum. Just strived to educate yourself all about crypto and everything will come very easy to you. Goodluck in your journey here.