DON’T GAMBLE

Many people view gambling as a harmless activity. It can be fun, and the lure of a potential win is exciting.

However, gambling is never a good idea.

Gambling institutions are set up to make you lose. They prey on peoples’ hopes of easy money. The odds are always stacked against you.

The New York Lottery is “North America’s…most profitable Lottery.” Translation: most people who play lose money to them. The Lottery tries to make you feel good about losing money, since excess money funds state education.

Think of it this way: the Lottery is really just a way to make people pay extra taxes. When governing officials want to raise taxes, many people protest. However, people are willing to pay additional “taxes” to play a game.

Many people who play the Lottery are those who can least afford an extra financial burden.

Other casinos and gambling organizations don’t even have the feel-good aspect of funding state programs, because the money you lose just enriches the owners. The house never loses, and the patrons always do. If you calculate how much money you’ve spent gambling, and how much you’ve won, you’ll find that your losses outweigh your wins.

Next time you’re tempted to gamble, bet on a sure thing. Keep your money in your wallet. That way, you’ll know you can’t lose.

If you have a gambling addiction, visit http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/. You can find a meeting location, or talk to someone over the phone to receive help with your addiction.