As always, I like your ramblings and have found that taking time to really read posts and comment thoughtfully is the very best way to build relationships that last so it's worth its weight in gold even if it takes a lot of time.
Yes you are definitely a minnow - defined by how much steempower and although I don't remember the divisions exactly, it's about "vests" and @barrydutton explains it well: https://steemit.com/steemit/@barrydutton/steemit101-what-s-a-minnow-dolphin-whale-etc-in-terms-of-the-numbers-anyways-resources-for-steemit-noobs
But the only reason this matters is that one has to gain "influence" (reputation and SP as well as to have a good loyal following) to be most effective in terms of our posts being seen and being able to give sizable upvotes as well as rewards for our posts. Of course there are the benefits of being here that can't be named with a number though and those are invaluable but again, it's easier to make friends if your posts are easily seen.
It sounds like you're finding your way quite well!!
Well, I set the goal to diligently post each day and to access all the great contests and challenges as part of my new year art endeavor and I'm nothing of not diligent. I get pleasure from setting then achieving my own arbitrary goals and if something good come from it I say hurrah, great side affect and well done you. If I please and satisfy myself first, then even if my efforts fail, I've still succeeded in my own joy.
Thank you for taking the time to comment back, this is what I really like about Steem is what good little chat's we can have in the comments.