Peer inspiration, a sheer joy

I have lots of writer friends. Possibly even more writer acquaintances/blasts from the past/somebodies-that-I-used-to-know. What's the most thrilling thing about hobnobbing with those graced by the muses touch? The inspiration that comes with reading their work and seeing their success firsthand. In the corniest of ways, it inspires hope into my cold, cold, corporate drone of a heart.Let me tell you about a book I just read for an agented friend. It's giggle to yourself on the train, smile without realizing it, guffaw out loud funny. The story is fast paced and the dialogue is hilarious and believable. Added all up and I can sense the bestsellerness oozing from its digital pages.The best part about serving as a beta reader is the unbridled joy and inspiration that's engulfing me in warm, glowing writing light. To be in such proximity to genius, to wit, it makes me feel I can infuse my own first manuscript with similar goodness.It should be noted, I finished the first draft of my complete first manuscript just two and a half weeks ago. Who knows where I'll take it from here but here's a big self-congratulatory huzzah and high five from me to me!Are you inspired by your peers and friends? By nature? By being choked by the thought of going to work in the morning? By your local puppy park? Share it in the comments! If there's anyone out there reading this that is...Love ending on a self-deprecating note. Cheers, and goodnight!