A harmless vice?

Some might call it amusement, diversion or just a harmless pastime; I think it’s a dangerous vice with consequences which could lead into heartache to the person involved, a family suffering and friends shunned. When it becomes an addiction that one can’t control or overcome, then it’s no longer just a vice but an iniquity.

“What is it?” you ask. It’s gambling! Not just any sort, but the kind we are forced to see when we watch almost any sport on TV. It’s a new phenomenon that sprung upon us without any warning or our agreement. How many businesses in the industry are promoting it? The number multiplies it seems and infiltrates betting on the success or failure of individual players or the number of times a bat is swung or a hockey stick is shot or a team wins or loses.

The hypocrisy of it all is the thoughtfulness of the promoters to warn against addiction and urge those who reach that level to  seek out counsellors or institutions who are more than ready to offer help.

What about the viewers who have to endure all of the numerous methods the gambling business creates to make it more attracting and easy to join and the wonderful excitement and happiness it will bring when we all win the bets – for many lose, and when they do, it was so much fun to try. What will be the next vice or an existing one only embellished? I wish there were no more, but unfortunately that won’t be the case. Let’s be wise and stay away from all of them – the present and the near future.

Ray Sheen, Taber