One concept is that as Steem is evolving to be better, so will BTC. Eventually, mining will be no more... I think your suggestion to keep the BTC and use fiat is gaining ground with me. The concept I'm forming is a "trashtocash" account to essentially buy Steem with money I've gotten from recycling to further drive how profitable it can be when I compound the Steem and grow it. It'll also let me develop a community/reward others. It's just a seedling of an idea and Steem can be shifted over to a new account at any time, but the theme appeals to me. Part of me does want to do a big load up to not delay, but my gut says to chill out. Good points on the active role and utility coin. That's essentially why I keep hanging around here.