For me, collecting cards keeps me 'young'. I still feel like a 10 year old when I hear the mail man coming down the street.
I see a real difference between 'collecting' cards and just 'buying' cards. If I had enough cash to buy a full set right away - I wouldn't do it. The joy in checking the boxes on a checklist (or putting X's on a excel spreadsheet), is what I enjoy. (my son too). I worked on a '59 Topps set for 10+ years and loved it. I had the money to finish it sooner, but it would not have as fun. I wanted to assemble the set - not buy it. I like enjoying each card (or a few at a time). My T206 near set is the same way. I like to pick up a few a month and 'enjoy' them.
Sure, I break the bank when a true 'must have' comes around once every few years - but that is rare.
BTW - for those that mentioned the '89 Ripken card -
http://www.billripken.com is actually my website. Guilty pleasure I confess.... But I did just pick up 8 different missing ink proofs (all different)...
Happy Collecting to all.