I don't think it sounds silly at all tbh. Even if you feel like you barely moved from where you started, that's still upward progress, sometimes it takes years and years and then it suddenly hits you, sometimes it's a slow but sometimes fulfilling slog, but as long as you're kicking and fighting I think it's worthwhile when it comes to making things in general. And I'm sure the person who inspired you would feel happy about the effect they had on you.
Somewhat ot I realize but I've been personally struggling with similar feelings lately, so I can commiserate. Much like I'm falling back on TM cause it's something I've written before and feels familiar, I hope it stays a refuge for you even if you move on to other things.