I have been actively reading the comment section of posts and commenting for the last few weeks as I found this to be a way of learning how Steemit works and forming friendships, it is also nice when that comments gets appreciated with an upvote, but I do not expect it. There is a wealth of information in the comments section, and some of the comments I have read are better than some of the main posts. I have also found some great like minded people to follow, yourself included. I also appreciate that you respond to comments, there are some that do not, and it can feel like you are being snubbed, especially if that user has a small following. I always upvote those that respond to me because it shows my appreciation of that person replying to me even though my vote carries little to no financial amount - that is why my voting level is very low!
Yes, it is a place where you can get a much better understanding of the issues at hand, no matter the subject of the post.
With low Steem power, it is the act that matters more than the value.
yes, this is something I learned early, as in life replying with a thank-you always goes a long way in fostering good relationships