Either way is fine with me. Maybe only show a count down if you are over half way to earning enthusiast, aficionado, and devottee. I personally only go after badges that I think are worth something. The helpdesk and tech support badges are good badges. Visting everyday for a year takes effort. I think out of love and higher love are worthless badges. To each their own.
You described the problem perfectly. I thought that was exactly what it meant. I only needed 1 like in 20 different posts.