As someone who isn't really great at posting or commenting as often as I should, I am sad to say that most of my SP is purchased. I haven't really worked for it and so I don't know if my viewpoint is really useful for those who built their stake here.
That said, as far as I am concerned, I have made some of my closest friends here. I am a person who has trouble developing connections in person. It can happen given the right set of circumstances (and has; I do have some 3D friends), but the vast majority of my closest relationships start on the screen.
I have been a Steemian for almost a year now; about eleven months. In that time I have had some of my favourite interactions with my fellow human beings and have befriended souls most unique and beautiful.
So yes, @meno... a thousand times yes. It's worth it. No matter what happens.