I agree with Rhaina for the most part. I'm so pleased when an artist who's work I admire posts a comment on an image I've done. Since I only post things I like, if something isn't particularly well received, I'm more surprised than disappointed. If the hot 20 were a contest of some kind, with a cash prize (hint hint) then I'd feel more competitive, but as it is, it's a showcase for the images the viewers like best, and that is just fine with me. By the way, I rarely vote, and when I do, I vote for something truly unique and extraordinary.