Melbourne Cup day. The race that stops a nation. Ever since Superimpose in 1990 brought me in a $7 return for the $1 proxy bet I made as a kid I have placed a bet on this race. It's patriotic. Since that time and all grown up I've focussed on other aspects of the day too. The social aspect, friendly rivalry with schoolmates, uni friends and later workmates. Sounding and later being interested as to the merits of a wet track or a dry one, follow a favourite number or colour, the possibilities are endless. This year I went to my local races and for me it was all about the headwear. For the uninitiated, a fascinator is supposed to be exactly that, fascinating. I was most impressed by the chinese- style satellite dish this girl was wearing (I wonder whether the broadcasts she was receiving were interesting) but some of you have been kind enough to say that my efforts here were alright.
Now, as a Christian, I don't know if I should have issues about gambling on the Cup. The amount I lose per year is modest, but is my patriotism a good excuse? Is it alleviated if I donate my winnings to charity should I ever win? Is it the same as also being a healthy minded carnivore who hypocritically buys RSPCA barn laid eggs? After all, I don't want the chickens to be tortured for my breakfast, just killed quickly for my supper.
1 comment:
Here's my take on gambling (no pun intended): It seems to me that what we are cautioned against is relying on the proceeds of our gambling. I don't see any problem with dropping a few dollars on an afternoon of entertainment if that is all it is. Once it becomes a way of life, or once we are becoming foolish with the rent money, then we've got a problem. That's my thought
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