Luck Be A Lady

Local, state and even our federal governments are set up to part us with our cash. It is not taxes I am referring to. It is gambling. In its many forms gambling takes away much and gives very little in return. It is an institution with roots in world history. Lottery, casinos and even bingo night at the local church all exist for one reason. They want your money and they want as much of it as you are willing to give.

Many people enjoy various forms of gambling. There are the ones I mentioned as well as betting on horses, dogs, sports and let us not forget the friendly wager made at the pool hall. Why are we as a people so fixated on wagering? I do not believe that it truly brings the entertainment and satisfaction that gambling advocates promote.

I have heard the justifications for risking one's hard earned money. "I get to relax for hours, play cards and enjoy free drinks!" "It is a social event that I and my friends enjoy." "My money will just get blown somewhere else!" These rationalizations belie the obvious truth. People would likely never risk their money if there was not a slim chance to walk away with more.

Deep down inside people gamble for one reason only. They hope that they will somehow return home with more than they left with. Disappointment may be hidden behind masks but the truth is evident. The game, no matter what form it takes, is stacked in the house's favor. The odds are against you. Why else would all of these various gambling establishments exist if not for making a profit? It is not for the public good, of this, I can assure you.

Let us not forget about the children! Your gambling helps the state to fund our schools. You would not want the poor illiterate children to go without books would you? This is the mantra often repeated by state gaming officials. You see their advertisements on billboards and in magazines. Unfortunately, what they do not tell you is, the percentage of the education budget that includes gaming revenue is minuscule. It hardly makes a dent.

Gambling hurts everyone. It hurts our friends and families. It hurts the poor animals racing for our enjoyment. It hurts ourselves. Ask any member of Gamblers Anonymous what gambling has done for them. You will not hear a happy story. The largest victim is our communities. Walmart may hurt surrounding businesses but casinos are the real evil.

Gambling makes us all poorer. The biggest lie of all is that casino employment and property taxes paid to cities are helping to boost the economy. If we kept our money we would immediately be better off. If we spend it in our own communities a wonderful thing happens. Business prospers. More people are employed. More businesses are open. More money flows into the community. When the tide is strong we all reap the benefits.

I personally do not care if you keep your money, spend it or donate it to a worthy charity. It is yours and you worked hard for it. What I care so deeply about is the idea that risking it is somehow entertaining and profitable. The only ones being entertained are those with their hands out. The profits claimed are not in our bank accounts but theirs. The next time you spend your money I suggest this: Spend it in such a way that you walk away having grown richer for the experience. It is all about the quality of life.