Because with experience you realise

The setting plays a role – be it the room, table, players, or small talk

But the cards in hand are more important

And the skills can make good of a bad hand

However, it is the mind that transforms the skills into mastery

And even then, to win is not guaranteed

It hits you – like a curveball that turns

The settings are the same – be it the chausar played in the epic Mahabharata or the poker played in todays clubs

The players come and go

What stays aware and engaged is always the mind

You are the actual game!

The props – your mind inside out

Those who laugh and cry do not know what the person knows

Seek the company of such who do not seek one

The poker faced poker player.