Wow. After reading many of these comments, I feel rather discouraged. I first joined this site a few years ago. As with some other sites, trying to fit in and develop friendly relationships with veteran members was like trying to become part of an exclusive club. I write humor. I realize that not everyone shares my style and that's fine. However, being made to feel genuinely welcome somewhere means more to me than receiving obligatory reviews. Heck, I'll even take the, ahem, 'lofty' attitudes with a smile - cb. After all, my goal is to become a better writer, meet other writers, and develop a readership.
I just signed up for the premium, card-carrying membership because I wanted to give this site another go. I understand the motivation behind the point system as well as the frustration felt by some of the writers. I like that you offer two types of memberships, and I think it gives writers time to get to feel things out a bit before committing to a paid relationship. I have no problem with the point system. As someone else pointed out, those who are perhaps more serious about improving their craft and helping others will stick around and put in the work. Not that my opinion amounts to a hill of beans. :-)
Jill
