What if potato is the wrong metaphor? Not wrong, like bad, but maybe the least practical way to measure writing. This isn't a chili cook off. It's just us, writing from our perspective, and for the most part bringing our unique voice to the table.

I read you. I follow you. And maybe, if we continue with your analog, people need potatoes. Maybe by the time I have finished, my own personality as added some sour cream, lots of Tibetan pink salt, more than I should add to anything, and cheese... Sometimes we just need potatoes.

The thing is, Medium is more like a buffet and we needed every voice, and every person brings something unique to the table.

You assume you're bringing potato. But in truth, you're bringing you, your insight, your love, your interests. Should you be more critical of others? Sometimes we need that, too. There some people here who do that well. Maybe sometimes we need kindness. You just be you.

It might also be the most dangerous part of writing here is assuming that like and reads means something. Your personal value has nothing to do with your level of success at any one endeavor. Everyone wants to be liked. You are normal in that regards. As your success goes up, so will the people who bring you negative. Twitter can be harsh. I would say, just keep on keeping on and do it because you love it. That much is clear. you love writing. That's everything.

Did you ever see the movie 'The Kid' 2000, Bruce Willis...? I recommend it. I don't know why yet, but watch it and tell me if my intuitive ghost voice wasn't right. :)