I agree with you completely, engagement is really the key to be successful here. When I started I likewise wasn't earning anything. Figuring out how things really work takes time, and I think that's why so many "newbies" lost interest and walk away. I'm glad I stuck with it, and I've met some great friends along the way, you included.

Language barriers I have seen too, but some people just don't bother to read. I've been guilty of that when I'm in a rush to get out the door. I did like the KISS rule, keep it simple stupid... although you probably left off the last "s" for good reason! lol