74 Rep Milestone and My Thoughts On The Current State of Steem

74 Rep say wha??

I felt like this day would never come... I think I turned 73 last summer! I'm definitely in the Steem senior citizen club... can that please be a thing? 😂

What I thought was SO cool and kind of funny that the post that pushed me over the edge was my Steem Gratitude post. I honestly can't think of a better post to push a big milestone with! Thanks @theycallmedan for the great initiative! It's been fun to see everyone else's #gratitudechallenge posts and hear everyone's stories.

I know that engagement and the overall amount of users has felt pretty sparse around here during the bear market - but I'm so inspired by each of you that are still here, doing your thing and investing in your future - because that's exactly what you are doing - investing. The amount of steem we've been able to earn at these low prices will pay dividends in the future when the price goes back up. I feel there is a sense of family with those of us that have been active during the bear market this last year or so - and even when this place fills back up with people in the next altcoin bull run - we'll all have a special bond.

I guess what I'm trying to say is... keep steemin on. In a world where people tend to jump from one thing to the next because they are seeking a sense of instant gratification - I think the value of sticking with something for a long time is massively underrated. People flutter around from thing to thing and wonder why some people seem to achieve the "sucess" they want. In the case of Steem - maybe it's a large following, generous supporters and a community that actively engages in their content. That doesn't happen from just "trying it" for a while. It comes from showing up every day and doing your thing.

Sometimes opportunity favors the lucky... but I'd rather create my own opportunities - wouldn't you? You can't be ready for open doors to appear if you are sitting on the sidelines. Those that are actively participating and showing up are the ones that see the long term benefit that everyone craves.

Do I have my fears that the Steem will tank into oblivion and this will all be over? Sure. Do I let that potential fear stop me from still engaging and doing what I can to help the platform grow? No. Am I silly for still believing in this place? Maybe. That's a chance I'm willing and excited to take though. I love this place and if we can pull this thing off it will be the best damn thing ever.

Love you guys ♥️