How long will it take me to learn to play the guitar?

People have asked me this question countless times. Each time I’m asked I hesitate and stutter trying to find the appropriate answer. I could honestly say just a few months or the rest of your life and both answers would be true. Students ask me how long it took me to learn to play guitar? Well, I never woke up in the morning and looked in the mirror and said to myself this is a great day. Now I have mastered the guitar. The truth is, you never stop learning and you never stop wanting to be better. If your idea of playing guitar is strumming some chords around a campfire while everyone sings traditional songs, then you’ll be able to play in just a few months (with a little practice). If you want to master the instrument, you will work at it the rest of your life. Regardless of your expectations always remember music is a gift and it is to be enjoyed. So, enjoy the music above all else!

My students could help me answer this question.