R
roymckenzie
Guest
I had a few extra dollars and played some online poker. I ended up losing more money than I expected. Did I commit an evil?
Which is why they have a Gambler’s Anonymous as well as a Alcoholics Anonymous (as well as a Narcotics Anonymous).First of all, poker is a game of skill, if you approach it correctly. But I think that’s the rub. Those of us that play live have probably seen the hopelessly overmatched player lose his money to all the players that knew what they were doing, and watch him leave and go to the ATM to take another wad of cash out as we lick our chops at the idea that we can pursue our edge over this guy further.
I think, then, for me it’s not a sin because I manage my bankroll carefully, play only games within my limits, and never play with money I can’t afford to lose.
But others, (less in online games), don’t have the same restraints and in a direct way, their lack of self control and understanding (maybe even gambling problem) leads to mine (and others) winning sessions.
But that in some ways, is a microcosm of the way our economy itself is organized. Using our talents to gain an edge in a variety of circumstances.
See you on Pokerstars!
Well us that do things to extremes give those in the middle of the road something to shoot for. No but, alcohol is not evil just the over use of it, but is poker evil?Which is why they have a Gambler’s Anonymous as well as a Alcoholics Anonymous (as well as a Narcotics Anonymous).
Uncontrolled gambling is a sign of obsessive/compulsive behaviour and needs to be treated.
pretty much, except that taxes go to support something that is, in theory, in the public interest… money you lose gambling online goes to line who knows who’s pocket.isn’t this what they call the “stupid man’s taxes?”
serendipity said:(Francis DeSales)
"Moreover, although such games are called recreation and are designed for it, they are by no means such. Actually they are strenuous occupations. Is it not an occupation to keep one’s mind caught and bound by unremitting concentration and disturbed by constant worry, apprehension, and care?I think the good Saint had a distorted view of what can constitute recreation. Many video games, board games, card games, as well as more athletic sports “keep one’s mind caught and bound by unremitting concentration and disturbed by constant worry, apprehension, and care”. Not to mention a good dramatic movie.
I don’t think that’s true for most. But it is for some, who should not be gambling, and for whom it is probably sinful.“In fact,there is no pleasure in gambling except to win, and pleasure comes soley from our companions’ losses and pain and is certainly evil.”
thanks serendipity i agree as wellFrancis de Sales,in the Introduction to the Devout Life:
**Gain is not acquired at these games by reason, but by chance, which often falls to one whose ability or industry deserves nothing…Gain ought to be a reward for labor but here it is made the reward of chance. Chance deserves no reward whatever since it in no way depends on us. **
**Moreover, although such games are called recreation and are designed for it, they are by no means such. Actually they are strenuous occupations. Is it not an occupation to keep one’s mind caught and bound by unremitting concentration and disturbed by constant worry, apprehension, and care? **
In fact,there is no pleasure in gambling except to win, and pleasure comes soley from our companions’ losses and pain and is certainly evil.