The whales, dolphins and fellow minnows are very generous, especially to those who do great work. It gets noticed, even though it might not show up right away monetarily. People remember who was respectful, or who helped out a minnow with no real monetary reward for themselves.

Steemit will only succeed if we continue to truly care about each other and give constructive criticism. Whales votes are very valuable and so if they were to reward people who constantly beg for a vote and whine when they don't get it, that would reflect poorly on not only the whales reputation, but if steemit becomes a place where content is the same as anywhere else, it will no longer maintain it's value.

We are investing in each other (both time and money). Unless you invested a lot of money, you are starting from a small new poster to becoming a larger fish who should spend time helping newcomers gain knowledge to advance their own unique voice. It's a critical time to make sure people have a positive connotation associated to steemit and decide to stay for not only the money, but the community as well. Congrats @mrgey on being rewarded for your hard work here. (Guessing your username is not a 50 shades of reference lol) and thanks for being a valuable member of this community/ecosystem)

While I have made over $.80 before, I am still learning what my voice as a writer will be. Keep pouring out what you are passionate about and not what you think will be the next trend and I will see you on the way to whaleship!