You're using the stained glass icon! *squees*

I never seem to like the the one everyone else does and I'm always surprised by that.

*nods*

I usually find that writers who don't take any advise, usually just want a cheerleader not a beta. Someone who is going to tell them how wonderful their writing is and no critique.

I wrote a short post on betas back in July that sparked an interesting discussion, and that was one of the points I made, because I've had that experience: http://red-satin-doll.livejournal.com/20858.html

I've even had to ask someone "What do you actually WANT from me?" Because if someone wants a cheerleader, I can be that. And in a way I'm glad that I have been there, because I might have discounted Ryan's advice outright. And the thing is, no artist is EVER obligated to listen to their beta, and I say that to my friends when I look at their writing; but yeah, after a while, you have to walk away. I can count on one hand the number of people who ask for my advice and are able to really listen to it, then we can discuss it and it turns into something richer, and that conversation is part of the process. It's really special when it does work.

Bottom line, betas (muses, special readers, feedback friends, etc) don't get the love they deserve.