POKER AS A LIFESTYLE

Determination to be great at anything you decide to do is admirable and a great quality. Self destruction isn't.

Those that study the game, enjoy playing and continue to try and improve their game are not addicts. Pro's that have honed their skills to the point where they can make a living are to be admired as much as anyone else that is on the top of their chosen career.

However, there is still a percentage of players that are gambling addicts. They play in a game they know nothing about simply to gamble. They throw away their rent money, kids college money, etc. That's a self destructive addiction, and is not an admirable quality.