Just running a node is like seeding a torrent. All you're really doing is sharing blockchain data.

Running a node to verify the transactions you send and receive is actually enforcing rules upon your money and thus participating in the organic bottom-up governance process of the network. 

 Related reading: https://blog.lopp.net/sovereignty-vs-society/ 

 Great read. I don’t see this subject treated in depth much anymore. 

 ok thanks lopp.