I agree with you when you say Steemit is the biggest thing to hit the internet. It deals with value creation and distribution between creators and curators so efficiently. I can tell that a lot of thought was put into creating this system. Time well spent.
I was lucky to have created my account way back in October 2016 and I think it was an instant activation at the time, I can't remember, but I remember it being quick. For those who are on the waiting list, I'd ask you to be patient and know that you are joining a very valuable community and that you will be glad you joined us.
Thanks, nice comment :)