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".
As if you are talking youve been here a lomg time already. Was this account was an alt and you just made a post and didnt realize that you are using it?
Well having your worth is a hard earned tasked. Everyone go to that phase whereas some dont believe you but yoi must prove it by action and can be seen though.