it doesn't make me better, or someone with a rep of 45 worse.

I have heard of people who only reply on high reps, but I am pretty rep blind and as long as the comment is decent, I reply. Obviously when starting out it is probably good to comment on higher reps, but once higher yourself, it s good to set an example.

Maybe it just demonstrates persistence on the blockchain.

I think this is what it is for many, other is it just that they got the right support early and kept it.

.So maybe the rep is not as highly regarded these days.

I think many don't regard it or even know what it really is these days as it has fallen out of favor in posts as it lost its meaning through bidbots.

It is pretty meaningless, unless you apply meaning to it - like all reputations.