Ask HN: I only have HackerNews cred of (15), does it matter?

I've submitted a few links and comments on HackerNews but like more users, I don't ever make it to the front page. Actually, most of my stuff usually gets 2, maybe 3, total ^ on HN.

So, here's my question. Does it really matter?

Is my (15) cred number with HackerNews just a vanity metric or does HackerNews actually improve my experience or sharing ability as I get a higher cred number?

Thoughts?