I paid to join. It shows that I paid according to my online bank. It shows that I paid when I access my account page on here and yet I can’t do anything that other paid members do (other than post obviously). I followed the instructions in the activation email too. Whenever I try to access the links in the drop-down menu of username, it says I don’t have access. In fact when I went to post this it said I was a guest, but when I click the link that offers me a permanent subscription, it says I already have one. 
You’re showing as a member, so your account is paid. Which specific links don’t work for you?
click on my name. it shows links like:
view my profile
other posts by strawberrygirl
if i click on these on anyone’s name i get a message saying i don’t have access.
Hmm, that’s odd. But, I know who can resolve the issue for you: Paging TubaDiva. Please pick up the white courtesy phone.
Have you tried
Logging out and then back in again?
Clearing your browser cache?
One or both of those may do the trick.
Perhaps we can distract you from the technical problems with a hearty welcome and a conga line?
The powers that be will get ya sorted out. Until then…We Dance!
See if you don’t have full membership privileges now.
Jerry
Conga!!
Welcome, strawberrygirl!
I hope your technical difficulties get worked out soon. Who are you trying to check up on? 
ETA: Oops, I might have joined the conga line a minute too late. 
Why you of course! However if you don’t have a pet rabbit, I’m afraid my stalking will be short-lived.
Thanks for the welcome conga! And thanks jdavis, everything works now!!
Congrats and welcome again to the Straight Dope!