I’ve gone nearly four months without purchasing a sports card. In Gamblers Anonymous, they tell us to take it one day at a time—and that mindset has helped me tremendously throughout this journey. Bxut even with that approach, temptation is everywhere. Later this month, I’ll be auctioning off my entire collection to pay down a large amount of debt. It’s the right decision, but that doesn’t make it easy. I still find myself checking comps, scrolling Instagram, tracking redemption statuses, and watching breaks—not because I want to buy, but because that itch is still there. The pull doesn’t disappear overnight. When the urge gets too strong, I try to redirect myself. I’ll put on a show, pick up a book, or play with my kids. But even then, triggers are embedded in the world around us. TV commercials glamorize gambling. Video games aimed at children push loot boxes and prize wheels. It’s all around us—and it’s exhausting. I catch myself thinking about my old collection and reliving the chase. The breaks, the boxes, the endless search for the next hit. I wish I could erase those thoughts, but I can’t. What I can do is keep choosing not to act on them. I’m sharing this because I want others to know they’re not alone. These patterns, these urges—they don’t make you weak. They make you human. But they’re also proof that this really is an addiction, not just a hobby gone too far. No other hobby has made me feel this way. If you’re struggling, please reach out. Collectors MD exists for moments like these. You don’t have to go through it in silence. #CollectorsMD —
Support over shame. One day at a time.
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