@stellabelle - **Very well articulated.  You are correct in stating that Steemit is a test.  I did go through Phase 1 exactly as you describe it.  Perhaps I am still going through it.  That ubiquitous $ number below the post dictates an emotional response.  If the number is low, I start worrying that people are not interested in hearing what I have to say.  However,  with my positive mindset,  my response to that negative emotion has always  been striving to pick up new skills towards producing better blogs (both in content and quality).  I never, even once, thought of bots to help me make money.  For that matter,  sure, I am happy that I can share my ideas or thoughts and make money on Steemit but making money has never been my objective.  By virtue of god's grace and my hardwork, I have been able to generate sufficient money to keep my family as well as my parents  happy and that is all that matters to me.**
I have started thinking of giving back early on, when I did not even have 1 SBD or Steem yet in my account and started hosting contests for Minnows with rewards from my own post earnings.  I have tried to support the needy with donations (however small - as per my ability).  I understand that Steemit is a community of caring and intellectual people that stick together.  I respect that.  Therefore, whether I make it to Phase 2 or not,  I will at least never ever be someone who harms Steemit.  
Hope we all get together to help Steemit become stronger and we too, as Steemians and individuals,  evolve in the process to have stronger relationships in life and a wealth of knowledge.

Thanks for speaking up, as usual, against things that harm Steemit.  Upvoted.

Regards,
[![vm2904](https://steemitimages.com/DQmX7Azwc4E2dj92DqHKKdiRw96gRsgaUuo7STWPGJNDw23/image.png)](https://steemit.com/steemit/@vm2904/wild-steemit-mosaic-can-steemit-help-wildlife-conservation-original-digiart-photos-and-thoughts)