Welcome back!
I've only been here for a few weeks and I've learned so much in just a short time. It's good to hear the thoughts of someone who joined early, dropped off and now has made the decision to come back.
I really agree with what you wrote here:
The fact a decentralized, algorithmically-controlled system can pay me based on a user's delegation rights is downright bad ass. It is probably the first time in history a protocol has been invented that can mathematically distribute money in a semi-democratic fashion.
That is amazing! I am glad I found Steemit and made the decision to contribute to the community here.