Hey Hive account@rhaptor. Nice introduction, and great pics of your buddies. Steemit is definitely not a ponzi scheme, especially as you never need to invest if you don't want to. Just be active, post great content, curate regularly, learn the system and how to be brilliant, and build your following. Check out Hive account@minnowmentor for free help and support in growing on here, and Also check out the #promo-steem posts, of which I'm part of the team. We are committed to helping new members and minnows get the support they deserve and to spread the wealth around Steemit. Good luck with your Steemjourney.