A few years ago, my friend Lisa decided to dive into the world of cryptocurrencies. She was always an early adopter of technology, so it didn't surprise me when she called to tell me she had bought some Bitcoin. "It's the future of money," she said confidently. Over the next few months, I watched as her small investment turned into a sizeable sum. But it wasn't just about the money; Lisa became part of a community of enthusiasts who believed in decentralization and financial freedom. One day, she used some of her Bitcoin to buy a coffee at a local café that accepted crypto payments. "This," she told me with a grin, "is what it's all about—real-world use." Her excitement was contagious, and it wasn't long before I found myself setting up my own crypto wallet. Lisa's journey into cryptocurrencies taught me that sometimes, the future arrives before you're ready for it.