I understand completely, brother.  I lost 4 million coins I solo mined from the first launch.  I thought what a waste of time and electricity.  I thought I didn't want to be a part of it too.  Maybe it's Cali pride (born, raised and live here), or my interest in cryptocurrencies, but I figured it's always good to get in at a launch of a new coin (easiest to mine) and to hold them until it gains popularity and raises in price (short and long term, not quick dump to devalue).  I think California is so iconic that the coin won"t be able to not be noticed once a few merchants get onboard.  California is a one of a kind place and has an image world wide.  But, who knows maybe I'm wrong about all of that (still mining though ).

Just my 2 cents since I went through something similar to you...