For your point 1 I said a newbie needs steempower the most in initial stage and to earn that one needs to upvote whales to earn a good amount of sp.
for your point 2 If you have something in your pocket only then you can donate. If your vote value is zero so there is no point of donating as you are as equal as they are in terms of power and money.
Also, if you have a good post why would a newbie won't upvote you? I do upvote a newbie with a really good post.
Thanks for your upvote too @macoolette. Hope we have a long-term relationship and grow mutually.