Going up the Juggling Hierarchy - Why I got into it

Welcome to a three-parter where I explain why, how and when I did juggling. I'm pleased to finally get around to doing this. This series is as much for me as it is for you, as later on in my life I'd like to remember this part of my life with the clarity I do now.
Juggling was more than just chucking balls for me. It brought me out of myself. It found me friends, earned me respect (yeah, really!) and taught me the importance of getting good at something... and then stopping before it lost its appeal.
This first stage covers why I started and how I felt towards it at that time.