$1,000 in sales per month isn't that big of a deal. Most people should be able to do this if they have the time. I don't see the PowerSeller symbol as being bad. I feel the opposite as some here. When buyers think you're little suzy homemaker as opposed to a business, they tend to treat you accordingly. Then again, it 'might' depend on what you 'sell'. Of course, this varies from buyer to buyer. So, who can say for sure. As far as jumping through eBay PowerSeller hoops, who said anyone has to? If you do the minimum you get it and if you don't, you don't. No biggie.
Personally, I really don't see why people wonder if they should 'accept it' or not but whatever. Don't take it then. It only matters to you anyway. Congrats on your sales. I mean, that's what great about it, right?