It is interesting to note the increase of gambling in recent years. The
Council of Casinos, in their report of September 24, 2013, stated that in 1991
our country had 184,00 slot machines. By 1991, there wee 947,000. "Slot machines
are designed to get players to gamble longer and lose more over time," the
report commented. This often leads to problems, such as personal and family
financial issues. Many become addicted and think that one more gamble could
easily be the one to grant them the wealth that they so desperately want.
While casinos used to rely upon high end rollers, now they are more dependent
on the frequent lower income slot machine players. On our highways we see at
times caravans of busses headed to various gambling palaces. It's not surprising
that there is a significant increase in problem gamblers with a negative impact
on themselves and their families. It's more troubling now with the advent of
online gambling. We can expect more addictions.
Gambling in and of itself is not a sin if it's done for recreation moderately
and responsibly. It becomes sinful when one disregards his obligations to
himself, his family, his work and society, especially the poor. Easily, you can
get trapped in your own fantasy world, thinking wealth lies with the push of a
button or buying a lottery ticket.
Unfortunately, the amount of money waged in real or virtual casinos far
exceeds that which is given to charity and churches. A careful examination will
reveal how much one is obsessed with self and less mindful of others. As we
approach the time when Americans reflect on giving, we might make an accounting
of ourselves. Are we in that group that throws tens, twenties and fifties or
more in casinos or on lottery tickets while putting ones or less in poor boxes
and church collection baskets? How important is that slot machine or lottery to
you?
Father Stanley
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