Friday, November 12, 2010

Lottery / Gambling

When I listen to the Dave Ramsey podcasts on my way into work, I am surprised to hear about people winning the lottery.  There have been at least two people that I can remember that have won a sum of money over $100,000.  This has always bothered me.  I’m glad for the people who won, but I don’t see the sense in spending money on the lottery.  From what I’ve heard, I have never heard Dave talk about NOT buying lottery tickets.  These people may have won, but how much did they spend over a lifetime getting these lottery tickets?

I don’t know how you feel about the lottery, but I think it’s a waste of money.  When the jackpot gets over $50M, people around work come around asking if I want to “get in” on the tickets.  Never have I contributed.  They always say, “You’ll be sorry when we win…”  My response is: “You love me so much, you’ll give me a portion of your winnings.  I know you will. What’s $100,000 when you win $4M?” I feel that the money spent on these tickets could be used for better things (like paying off debt!)

I will admit, I have gone to a hand-full of casinos.  I know this is just as bad as the lottery.  I have a limit of $20 when I go.  And a lot of times, I come out a little bit ahead.  One time, my mom took me to the casino for my birthday and gave me $100.  She insisted I use the money she gave me on the slots.  I’m glad she made me, because I went home with over $250!  These trips are few and far between. 

This may make me a hypocrite, but I still think it’s a waste of money.  Whether you blow your money on the lottery OR casino, it’s the same difference in my eyes.
 

1 comment:

  1. I agree--its a waste. Sure its great if you win, but if you don't its lost money. Money that could have done another job.

    I have never ever played the lottery or gone to a casino. My friends can never believe that, but its true!

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