[obsoquasi]

When I started I didn't like flash either, but the more I learned about it I realised how powerful it is to shape image, create emphasis, mood and depth. Often a plain environment can be brought to live by lighting it in an interesting way. Also, flashes have the ability to stop time much more effective than a short shutter speed. So, in a way, strobes and flashes and lighting gear in general is just a set of brushes in your toolbox. It's probably a tool that is more useful for photographers who want to create the photo, rather then just take it. And even then, there are fantastic photographers who create conceptual work who almost never use a flash, e.g. Sue Bryce.