I have made some interesting observations about religion and gambling. I am always intrigued when I bear witness to this, a calling upon Him to bless the requesting individual with the precious gift of….. the winning numbers: boxed, straight, Powerball number, four corners, full card- Wait that’s BINGO. Seriously, though. Let me share a few observations.

I saw a woman purchase a lottery ticket and then make a sign of the cross with it.

Also, a former colleague puts lottery tickets in her bible overnight for luck. She locates a specific passage, I forget which one right now. I’m betting it’s not about worldly riches leading down the path of evil, or the value in praying for others over one’s own wants. Too funny.

Also, I once saw a person who had a lottery ticket slid into their ID badge at work, completely covering their actual work ID picture, name, and organization. They literally identified themselves as a gambler. I do appreciate the honesty, albeit a subconscious recognition of identity.

Recently, I came across a letter opener with a toll free number to call if you need help, Gamblers Anonymous. Interesting choice of advertising paraphernalia. Not a pen, or a note pad, or a magnet. But, rather, a letter opener. Perhaps to utilize for the many, many bills that have piled up because of the gambling problem.

My sentiment for the whole thing? You just plain cannot lose if you just don’t play. I’ll keep my money, thank you, and my perspective around reaching out to Him.