Magnificent post. Every newcomer should read this because lack of clarity regarding Steem, sBD, SP is one of the major reasons people behind people leaving at an early stage.
Infact I too quit (for a month) before I motivated myself again to participate here. And I haven't regretted rejoining one but till date :)
Glad you stuck around! It takes time and some effort to really understand it all. But the effort is rewarded if you stick with it.