Like some others have said, collecting beads can be intertwined with so much.

For me, that is certainly true.

If I did not collect beads, I would not have all these friends all around the world.
If I did not collect beads, I would not have this amazing annual Tucson bead/friend/inspirational event
If I did not collect beads, I would not travel as much, and my travel would be less interesting
If I did not collect beads, I would not have written 4 books
If I did not collect beads, I would not have started doing beadwork which brings me great artistic opportunities
If I did not collect beads, I would not have started melting glass, which challenges me endlessly
If I did not collect beads, I would not have such an appreciation for craft and craftspeople

And the list goes on....
And yes.....there's also the great beads ;-)