I believe I’ve found my ultimate soul mate. I’ve met my true lifetime companion. He does not judge me for who I am or am not. He treats me the same, unconditionally. Together, we’ve experienced the highest highs, traveled across the country, continued to learn about each other, and had the most amazing opportunities present themselves. He is and will always be available as his gift is timeless.

I’m in love with… The Beautiful Art of Pocket Billiards

If you’re in love with him (or her) too, then you know that nourishing this relationship does not come easily. It takes much hard work and dedication to be rewarding. It’s taken commitments and sacrifices from me and though he can not fail me, I have failed him. Contrary to what some may think, he always does exactly what he says he’s going to. He never misleads me. When he is wrong, it’s because I was wrong. He’s the most honest friend I’ve ever had.

Can you recall that moment? That first moment when you were bit by the [pool] bug? Were you a teenager? Were you on a date where you found yourself more interested in the entertainment than the company? Was it your Dad or Grandpa that first taught you how to hold a cue?

For me, it all began when I was 14-years-old. Playing the violin all my life, I was part of a private orchestra that met for rehearsals every Monday night from 7-10p.m. About once a month or so, after my mom would drop me off, a few of my friends and I would sneak over to Classic Billiards, the all-ages pool hall about four miles away and return just in time to be picked up by our parents. (Sorry, Mom!)

It was there that I first tried my hand at the game. It didn’t take long to realize I was just a little more serious and bit better at this thing than the rest of my friends. Playing off and on after high school, it wouldn’t be until ten years later when I joined my first league and had my first taste of competition. How simple things were back then. The less I knew, the less I knew that I didn’t know. 24 hours a day, all I could think about was shooting pool. I fell asleep to the music of pool balls in my head.

Whatever it was for you, I’d like to dedicate this article to all of those fond, early memories that inspired us to love this great game. Consider this a tribute to our beautiful sport and a reminder that no matter how frustrated we get or how much we think we hate it; there was a reason that we began playing in the first place. Don’t ever forget this.

Please be sure to visit PoolTipJar.com to share stories from your early pool memories.