Hey TwitchWS!
How are you doing? About your avatar issues, was the sprite you were using above 100 KB in size? If so, that's your problem, since images must be below 100 KB. If that's not the case, you could try using another image, such as
this one perhaps? Just click on your name in the top right corner of the page, go to Personal Details, and click your current picture to change it. If it still doesn't work, you can PM me if you'd like and I'd be happy to help.
Even if you battle just to see what your Pokemon can do, that doesn't mean it can't also be fun, right? ;) As for rude opponents that may be keeping you from enjoying the game, if it ever gets out of hand, you can always report it to a moderator and they'll deal with the situation appropriately. If it's just some jerk being rude, you can use the Ignore Opponent option in battle to, well, ignore the opponent.
Smogon is a great place once you get to know the community. There's a place for everyone, so don't worry about your anxiety. You'll be fine! :) If you have any trouble here, feel free to PM or VM me. If you have any questions, you can use the Simple Questions Simple Answers threads. Have a great time here!