Originally Posted by SaiKaiTai
As I said, I take a hard line approach to the definition of the word. There's habituation, there's compulsion and there's addiction. Right or wrong, it works for me but then I have dealt with a real addiction and it ain't NOTHING like, say, liking to watch TV.
A looser approach works for you... That's OK. Maybe you like the endorphins. That's a whole other can of worms.
I just think too many people use "addiction" as a cop out for lack of will.
Not saying you're one of 'em, mind you... I don't even know you... just sayin' I know people.
The word just has such cachet now... everyone likes to be "addicted".
It's so chic and fits right in with our lawsuit happy culture.
It seems sad... to me addiction indicates a need that cannot be fulfilled, an emptyness at the core and a distinct lack of joy or real pleasure.
That sure isn't what cycling is to me. It's fun and HIGHLY fulfilling.
I think I understand where you are coming from and I don't like being "addicted." If people had enough "will," we probably would not have had to deal with addictions. Like you stated in your life, I have dealt with, and am still dealing with a real addiction. I, unfortunately, am too familiar w/real addiction.
Not trying to prove a point or start a long dissertation--went through similar circumstances w/golf--when you try to get in 9 holes before work, you can "lose the farm." Fortunately, now, I own my own business and have no one but myself to answer to when I ride--but, too much riding is harmful to my business and health.