As has been said the reputation system, via the rate button on each post, is separate to the stars under your name which as R says go up with your post count. (unless you're admin), so Derek do not worry your stars are well earned.
As for the rating system this too 'should' be a rerepresentati of how other people feel about your posts. As such it is also something which is earned by making good posts, being helpful, giving useful information, sharing wisdom, bringing interesting things to peoples attention, forum spirit etc. I'd say thinking of it as a like system is good, I can change the name on the button, to 'Like' which may promote more use.
As for the rating system this too 'should' be a rerepresentati of how other people feel about your posts. As such it is also something which is earned by making good posts, being helpful, giving useful information, sharing wisdom, bringing interesting things to peoples attention, forum spirit etc. I'd say thinking of it as a like system is good, I can change the name on the button, to 'Like' which may promote more use.