Never been much for casino's although I have been to a few and have played a bit on cruise ships as well, my gambling days are in the past but I really used to enjoy the Horse Track or play the greyhounds, just like a casino the atmosphere can be enticing with a hint of riches to be had, just a race away or a pull on the lever of a one armed bandit (why do you think they call it that?), or the draw of a card can put easy money in your pocket, yeah right. The odds are WAY against you my friend.
Although I believe moderation in all things, it especially holds true here I think, if and when we reach a certain point in our walk the desire to gamble is something that just melts away, the desire to gain easy money is not quite as important as wasting it trying. I do not believe it is truly evil unless it is taking money away from the family, and they are suffering. On the other hand feeding the greedy beast will not help us to grow in the spirit as much as taking that same money and helping someone in need, now there is a no risk winner, even if the person misuses the money it is something they will have to answer for and the blessing you receive is better than money in the bank.
A few years back I was in Detroit visiting family, my 75 year old Aunt (since deceased) who was a feisty quick witted and fun loving lady was with me and a few cousins having lunch when her parish priest (catholic) showed up, my Aunt Mary was the Activities Committee Chairperson at her church and the priest stated to her, "I see you have scheduled another bus trip to the Windsor Casino" (right across the Detroit River)! He was wearing a broad smile when he asked her "what's up with you and these gambling junkets?" "Seems like every senior activity is either at the racetrack or the casino." (he is still smiling waiting for the volcano to erupt) she jumps up from her chair and says "hey you should be thanking me for getting these old folks out of the house, every time I try organizing a trip to the museum or zoo or something like that nobody signs up, as soon as they hear we are going to the track or casino the bus is filled 5 minutes after mass. If you think you can do a better job have a go at it." The priest was still smiling when he said "I knew I shouldn't have brought it up." "You're darn right" was her reply.
Loved that woman.
Joe