we are all in changes, it is very hard to rank up now because of this merit system, but this merits system is for good, I mean, by this new rules/requirements our forum will less spammer and shitposts for the next month. we are all force to make a more quality posts to gain merits so it Is not too difficult to gain merits point to newbies like you, we are all required to make a quality post to gain merits every time. if you don't make one you still remain at your current rank.
To be able to up rank do we really need a merit now? I just got into a Member rank with a 0 point merit so what is the minimum merits in able to go through a Full member rank?
You will not be able to rank up to Member status until you achieve 10 merit points. I am in the same position. I just moved above 60 activity but will not get promoted to the next rank until I achieve 10 merit points. So far, I have earned 2 merit points and given away the 1 that I had for a post that I thought was valuable. Good luck.
I think there are a ton of people in the same boat as you are right now...myself included.