From my own standpoint, I give things away because I make something, I think it's cool and I think others might think it's cool too. Other than that, I don't really need validation or recognition. The fact that someone might find one of my bits o junk useful is all that's necessary. The way I see it: if they use it, then fine. If they don't, fine again....lol. Personally, I feel that if you need constant validation then there's a self-esteem problem. I didn't say that ppl don't LIKE recognition - they do...lol - but to have to have it is another matter entirely.

One other thing to also remember: If you give away a freebie, while it may get tons of downloads, you'll be lucky if you ever see it in a render, unless you're one of the few whose items are wildly popular ;o). That's just the way it is.

Laurie