This is a reply to the annual 'best fancic' nonsense that, only
now, is starting to take place.  I fear I'm going to offend someone by
posting this (that's never stopped me before) but I think it's
something that needs to be said.
     I probably can't speak for anyone but myself, however, I'm not on
this ML to compete for recognition, adulation, or awards.  I believe
each of us came here for similar reasons; a love of Anime and their
story lines.  We watch them.  We read the manga.  We follow our
favorite characters and revel in their exploits, share their pain,
and, just maybe, envy their lives and their loves.  We write because
what Anime and manga we can obtain is insufficient to satisfy our
thirst for ever more and greater stories.  I believe we write to, in
some way, connect with our favorite characters in a fantasy world
thoughtfully provided by people more creative or talented than
ourselves.
     Awards?  I get an award every time I get an e-mail on my stories.
No matter if it's criticism or praise, the fact someone would take
some of their valuable time to respond to something I wrote is an
award in itself.
     Praise?  Sure, I like to get praise.  Who doesn't?  From the
first time writer to the oldest veteran of the ML, we all like to hear
someone liked our stories.
     In some ways, everyone who posts on this ML is an award winner. 
It takes courage to post your work in public.  I have respect for
anyone who subjects themselves to the potential embarrassment; in
spite of the fact that this ML has proven to a most benevolent and
tolerant place to post the good, the bad, and the just plain ugly. 
The author may never hear the laughter or derisive comments; silence
being the ominous pool where such things dwell.  Still, no one wants
to think the fruit of their efforts is being laughed at.

     So why do *I* write?  I've never contended to write for any other
reason than my own amusement, therapy, or escape.  Since rejoining the
fiction writing community, I've never been happier.  Do I get a lot of
positive feedback?  Sometimes, but not always.  What I do get, I am
grateful for. 

     In any case, I concur with Mr. Biles.  Enjoy your little
'contest'.  Have fun with it.  It's just one more piece of spam I have
to delete.  Just don't expect me to participate in any way.  I have no
need for the phony gratification.  What's more, I know what I like.  I
don't need a 'poll' to confirm my selections.


     - Greg