We each have our reasons for being on Hive. Of course the potential to earn is a big draw, but I found a great community here and that has kept me going. I have spent a fair bit on trips to events like Steemfest, but it was worth it to me. I am fortunate in not struggling for money and I appreciate that for other the extra they make here can have a real effect on their lives. I do not like seeing people abuse the platform for pure gain without adding value and have taken action against that. I think it is worth fighting to make Hive all it can be.
I feel like I am winning!
I think you are too. Out of curiosity, prior to Hive, did you share your music elsewhere?
When it comes to the abuse, I agree it needs to be combatted, but it will never be "defeated" as whenever there is value to be gained, people will look for shortcuts of some kind.
I did post music to Tsu which shut down about the time Steemit started. I didn't make anything like as much there. There have been crazy times when I was making hundreds of dollars in Steem per week. Part of me was a little scared by that. It all gets too serious sometimes.