While casting dragons, goblins, and spells may seem outlandish to the average teenager, they are a major part of my life.

Through Magic: The Gathering, a 1992 trading card game with more than 12 million active players worldwide, I have learned to express myself and develop relationships with others. Although some may consider Magic childish, I take pride in it as a hobby I can enjoy with my friends.

As a child, I didn’t spend a lot of time with my half-brother John, as he mostly lived with the other side of his family. Although our time together was limited, we grew close after countless hours of dueling. I clearly remember the day he gave me my first cards. I was drawn in by the mechanics and art and resolved to build my own collection. I aspired to emulate his professional status and maybe even one day play across the world. Magic brought me closer to my brother despite our age differences, and I will always be thankful for that.

My brother eventually moved to live in China, so I saw even less of him. However, I continued to play Magic and it helped me make friends. In my youth, I played with many people including my friends at church, best friends in middle school and even babysitters.

In high school, people told me I was too old to play Magic. People gave me a hard time for being nerdy and weird, so I caved in and sold my collection of cards sophomore year.

I immediately regretted that decision, however, because the little cash I received didn’t compare to the value of my happiest memories. I felt lost without my cards.

This past summer I decided to start playing again with a good friend of mine from school. Even though buying new cards was expensive, it was completely worth it. Our friendship grew. We met students who also played and taught the game to our other  friends that wanted to learn. We don’t play all the time, but often we’ll play Magic if we’re bored instead of watching a movie or playing video games.

Even when I am alone, especially if I am stressed from school, I enjoy sifting and sorting through my cards like I did as a child. Looking at the art and reading the clever flavor texts helps me find solace and happiness no matter what mood I am in.

I am still amazed that so many of my best memories and friendships originated from my experience with Magic: The Gathering, but I have come to realize that for me it is more than just a card game; it is who I am.