I started blogging to be able to write whatever I wanted. I used to have my own website. I made absolutely nothing. So, even though, Medium isn't putting big bucks into my pocket, it's still something haha. But I would say the community is what keeps me here. There were many times that I felt burnt out, and the community encouraged me and held me accountable. I don't know if I would have kept writing without them.
You made a lot of great points! Even though I am so beyond thankful for Medium, I still grumble way too much at times.