[thephenom]

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It's a great game to visit, but a really awful place to live, despite any media imagery to the contrary. Anyone who thinks that long-term exposure to the lifestyle will not, in all likelihood, turn them into casino meat, is delusional. All due respect to Doyle and the extremely high-end hustlers who have made a genuine career out of poker. The other 99% are bumming chips in the cage line and sitting by themselves in crappy apartments.

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I think poker might be just a visiting place for me. Like you said man, all that glory, money, fame that they show on tv is for only a chosen few. The average experience with poker is far less glamorous, with far more detrimental effects than they show in the media.

I'm no degenerate who is losing money; but I've taken away time from my education, and taken time from other socially healthier, more productive activities.

I was at a point in my poker life, where I was contemplating taking it as far as I could possibly go. I think I'm at the turning point now, where I will change from being a daily online player, to a guy who plays in home games once a month.

Online poker has been my #1 hobby for the past 3 years, but I think its taken me away from my life too much. It's been a very rewarding ride to learn the game and grow for the past 3 years, but I've also neglected things that deserved more priority.

I really think its time for me to step away from the game very shortly. It's been a great ride with some memorable highlights and great experiences. I can't say I plan on retiring, but I'm sure it will be an extended absence.