I think the reason why your piece got featured with 9 stars is because it's actually pretty good writing. It's honest, simple and quite heart felt. It does lack some depth however and I'm sure that you will address that.
I gave you a gold star because I simply like it and for those reasons above even though it lacks the complexity that I would expect from a gold star worthy piece of work. Don't expect gold stars from me all the time, it isn't going to be that easy to please me I'm afraid
Does that answer your question?
Andy.
"To the edge of the universe and back. Endure and survive."