Guess we've traveled some of the same ground eh FatCat?-I wouldn't listen to anyone either-I guess we all go through it-some learn quickly-some(like me )are more hard headed and it takes a lot longer-too bad-I sure wish I could get some of that wasted time back!!-and who knows-maybe Madchemist will look back on this someday and it will have a positive influence on his decisions!(hope so!!)-the bottom line is I don't think you can compare gear use to alcohol or other "recreational" drugs-at least for me personally weed and booze did NOTHING for me except hurt me and those around me-whereas cycling with gear-healthy diet-no bars or running around on the wife-just serious training-yea I might be a little moody post cycle but my wife has told me(unsolicited)-"I'm very happy with my life,children and I like my ripped sometimes moody husband much better than the fat,high,drunk party guy who never came home!!"