I find it fascinating to play chess. I most like that it is a gentleman's game. I run into players all the time that are encouraging and help me become a better player.
I can speak for me I don't find much joy in beating someone who ranks much lower then I do. To me playing them is an opportunity to allow them to hone their game and learn from their mistakes. Admittedly though there are far fewer players worse then I am in comparison to players who are better. These are the players I enjoy challenging. The wins are more satisfying and the lessons are better. I do also appreciate that you don't see alot of bad sportsmanship. Again this is a gentleman's game.
Ultimately I play here to learn and apply those lessons to my games.