The word “gambling” usually comes with so many negative connotations, especially when mixed with messages from the government, particularly in the form of legislation. I find that there is a lot of hypocrisy involved with these messages because governments not only sanction, but they encourage gambling in the form of playing state lotteries.

What is a lottery if not a clear cut form of gambling? If you make a friendly bet with a buddy over a football game (let’s say the bet is to take him out for a beer if you lose) does this make you a “sports betting gambler?” Where are the lines drawn?

My grandmother has been playing the lottery every day for as long as I can remember? Does this make her a gambler? She even takes the group bus from her retirement center to one of the local casinos in Florida to play the slot machines twice a month. Is this actually gambling or is this just an old woman spending a couple bucks on some casino games instead of on a new pair of shoes?

I’m an avid poker player and recently online poker was outlawed in the United States. In certain states in the US it’s even illegal to play poker in the privacy of your own home. Strangely, this is considered a negative form of gambling, and these laws seem to be infringing on our personal freedoms. Who knows. I just hope Grandma gets to continue with her routine and I’ll continue to watch poker games on ESPN. Ah, the irony.

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