It seems very much like you've risen from the ashes, phoenix-like, and have emerged...different to that which you once were. It happens, sometimes multiple times in a person's life.

Here, I think you're on the right track. Too many make this place all about what's in it for me (WIIFM) and are focused on financial reward. I disagree with that as it often leads to behaviour that works in counter-productive ways for them. I believe the reward needs to be the engagement, the writing, creating and idea-sharing over and above rewards.

If one has that ethos then it won't matter than no one reads your post, or you only got 0.01 in reward. What will happen though, is that you will gain better relationships, write more passionately and from the heart...HAVE MORE FUN.

This is where the value starts.