I got into Go a few years ago after alphago made headlines, played online and went to local meetups. Only made it to around 9k, but had some fun. It was pretty

I got into Go a few years ago after alphago made headlines, played online and went to local meetups. Only made it to around 9k, but had some fun. It was pretty addictive. I didn't have a natural ability for reading, but could make some progress by leaning joseki and reading books. The amount of practice required to progress further than this can become substantial, modulo natural talent. It's funny how when playing someone who really knows how to read, they can break all the "established rules" and make you look silly by simply out fighting you, if you aren't as strong. The only people who were supportive or seemed interested in my playing Go were already Go players. Players I met online and in real life were very friendly. Friends and family in my social circle were not supportive of this choice, though. They seemed to think it odd and probably introverted, like someone loosing themselves in chess, so I stopped playing.