Gamble

I grew up in a family where any form of gambling was not allowed, and that it was always associated with being a waste. My dad was so keen on making sure every peso earned was well spent, that explains why spending money on gambling was a no-no.

I like to kid around with my colleagues who were so engrossed with "swertres" that their P12 could buy us banana fritters and that it would make our tummies full. A ticket of "swertres" wouldn't get our hunger anywhere. They would laugh and get back at me saying that if they win, we would buy a thousand banana fritters so that I would not have to complain.

Although it's a small joke, it is reality. The many times we bet on small town lottery, if summed up would equate to a big amount. That amount could be used for many other useful things in today's very expensive world. I don't get it. Despite poverty, a lot of people still gamble and risk the few bucks left inside their wallets. It's as if they are betting on a chance of a lifetime. But who knows, right? Nobody does, and it could be worth a shot.

Gambling for leisure is alright, when you have extra money for it. But when you just gamble in the hope of trying to get away from being poor, then I think there's something wrong. We can always work hard to get on top of the ladder. Success stories like these are more touching than those who are betting on nothing.

When the money is won, will there be pure happiness? I've known a lot of people who acquired a lot of money but are miserable about how to spend it. It only sounds good when they want it, but when they already have it it is totally a different story.

Now that the president has ordered the closure of all the outlets operated by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, I guess it is for the good. Although many people will lose jobs and incomes, those who are losing money also because of their greed to win will finally get to keep their money. Well, that is if they won't resort to any other form of gambling. They say that it is also addicting like any vice. Yet like any other bad habit, there is always a way to get out of it.

An appeal is on the way for the PCSO to operate back again. Should it open, I wish the Filipinos would learn their lesson that living life is not a one-shot deal and that you cannot bet your life on it. Sweat and tears is what is worth a good life, one that you could say that the sacrifice will be all worth it. If the turn of events in this country revolve again, I hope we would all realize why rash decisions such as the stopping of PCSO operations was made.