This was really well written.
I've been using Steemit for about two months now. I started off using voting bots (and am glad I did) but have reverted to just growing organically.
I think Steemit is a wonderful platform and it has definitely benefited me. While it has it's flaws, it is providing sustainable income options for MANY people. While I can't currently live off my Steemit income, it is growing. One day I might be able to support myself from Steemit alone!
Vote bots are useful on the occasional use to get some exposure you wouldn't get otherwise. I wish that weren't the case...