Some years ago, I decided to waste about eight years of my life languishing within a Billiard Parlor...I had advanced from 'sucking' at 9-Ball to being a 'half-ass', okay type player.
My growing popularity among the ever present, assortment of sharks, shakedown artists, leeches and hucksters of every description 'did' at least prove to be somewhat of an education; so I guess it wasn't a 'total' loss.
What I learned is that once you think you've figured out the 'con' being played around you, you 'will' be mistaken; because the 'game' will soon change...The seasoned pro's are always looking for a sign that you are getting 'wise' to them. In a heartbeat, they'll tweak or switch the con to keep you baited. As far as they're concerned, you are merely a 'fish' floundering around the waters of deception; maybe that's why it's referred to as a 'pool' room. They'll also 'pool' their resources to share in the profit of your loss.
It's just like those who sit within the chambers of Congress and the Senate. The various quasi-governmental 'alphabet' organizations assemble in cahoots, along with robe wearing justices, lobbyists and other 'card carrying' flimflam artists...of Washington D.C.
What is the commonality? They have weaved a 'tangled, convoluted web of deceit'...Once we innocently wander into their sticky trap, we become easily bound and subdued by their venomous bite. Cocooned within their grasp, we become a helpless, paralyzed mass of fearful regret...
So...what is the solution? Stay vigilant...don't be lured...trust your intuitions...trust your abilities, and remain dedicated to resisting those who attempt to ensnare and control you. Get out of the 'game' before your pockets are empty, don't stay in it attempting to figure it out...because even if you think you got 'lucky' and 'won'...They will be waiting in the shadows for you; to 'take' what they deem, is rightfully theirs...
I'm outta here my friends...stay strong.
Ciao
An 
Photo Credit: Pexels (thank you)