Yes, kPat, we really do become selfish when we gamble.
“How will I get the next loan?”
“How will I cover my tracks?”
“How will I win back MY money?”
etc etc etc
It’s all about ME. Selfishness and indiscipline.
When you meet somebody who is self sacrificing , like that colleague you mentioned, it makes us squirm.
God will honour her loyalty to Life, kPat. I will keep her and her family in my prayers.
It makes our problems pale into insignificance when we hear stories like that. I have heard many but when we are in the throes of gambling, we block them out due to selfishness.
I’m glad your daughter had a negative experience in the casino. Reading your post, reminded me about the day I took my son with me. He was about 19 0r 20 then. I put money in a machine and set him up playing small bets. I could see his eyes lighting up and his cheeks becoming flushed. I felt as if I had given him an illegal drug . Given him poison to alleviate my own “thirst”. I had a win and said “lets go”. He was reluctant to leave but he did. I hope and pray our children never get sucked into a lifestyle that sucked the life and soul from their mothers. I wouldn’t wish this “disease” on my worst enemy. It’s a curse from Hell.
By the way, why did your husband agree to that trip? Don’t blame yourself totally. Your daughter had an input too.
I think the reason I brought my son along was to fool myself and him into thinking gambling is a “fun outing”. I’m sure they are wiser than we give them credit for. I hope that wisdom never leaves us or them, kPat.
I loved your poem, kPat.
Keep composing!
