Chapter 1 : The One About A Gambling Addict

"Gambling Addiction" as defined by Cambridge Dictionary: "The condition of being habitually or compulsively occupied with or or involved in gambling."

"Gambling Addiction" as defined by The Dearest Wifey: " Spend money, be it big or small, on buying 4 digits permutations,be it or on a regular or occasional basis, render you as a compulsive gambler"

I admit that I do buy 4D once or twice a week, spending around $10 each time. I admit that I have been into a casino twice over the past 20 years of my life, losing around $50 each time. I admit that I play Blackjack occasionally with friends and relatives, usually betting $1 or less per play. Does that make me a gambling addict? The Dearest Wifey thinks so and we have a huge row over it.

She says that the fact that I can conjure up a 4 digits concoction just because a lizard dropped onto my collar out of nowhere fits me into the mould of a compulsive gambler. She also says that by relating this same 4 digits concoction to 2 of my closer relatives and inviting them to place a bet on it is a sure-fire sign of a compulsive gambler. Finally, she started crying and saying at the same time that because I spent 30mins driving and queuing at a Singapore Pool outlet nearest to my house, that I am, without a shadow of a doubt, a compulsive gambler.

My question is:" Does all of the above show that I m already addicted to gambling?"

An addiction is compulsive in nature. ie placing bets on every betting days, be it 4D, ToTo or soccer betting.

An addiction is a habit spiraled out of control. ie spending beyond what you can afford and start borrowing heavily to subsidies this habit.

An addiction is when the habit takes over a huge chunk of your life.

I AM NON OF THE ABOVE.

1) I spend less than 5% of my salary per month to indulge myself in this "addiction".
2) I don't gamble as if my life depends on the winnings.
3) The largest bet for a single number I have ever placed before in my life is $10
4) I spend less than 10mins a week thinking about gambling of any nature

If you had known me better, you will know that I don't easily part ways with my hard-earned money and that I don't take uncalculated risk. I am never a gambler by nature. I see myself more as an accomplished risk taker, one who access all pausible possibilities and consequences before taking the necessary plunge.

I do enjoy indulging in an occasional wager or two at the Singapore Pool. But its not because of the need for gambling, but rather, its to add a little spice and excitement ( people call it cheap thrill, I rather call it a dose of adrenaline-high.), into an otherwise mundane life.

Guy says:" Life sucks! You spend half your life working, and half your life working, then you die! For as little as $10 per week, you get a feel of living life on the edge....What the hell's wrong with that?

Your call.