In the 19th century methodists thought that gambling was no better than alcohol. Opinions were that it was a threat to the moral, financial and spiritual well being of the poor. It was a pastime associated with the working class.
In modern society gambling is actually classed as a 'leisure' activity, but it also very addictive.
A couple of years ago I had a night out at a casino. I enjoyed the whole experience and was fascinated by how much cash was actually flowing. Cashiers were bringing cases full of notes to men playing at the tables, they were just as calm as anything. I had never seen so much money.
I enjoyed a few games of black jack and poker and actually won £60 at poker. I will admit to getting greedy though, and if my boyfriend had not made me realise it was time to stop playing I would of carried on. (What a spoil sport),and most probably gambled away our house,as i got a real thrill out of playing, scary really . Seriously though I can see how easy it is for a person to become a compulsive gambler, especially if they are in a vulnerable position.All sense of responsibility and perception can be lost, if in the wrong frame of mind.
http://www.methodist.org.uk/index.cfm?fuseaction=opentogod.content&cmid=1558
I can relate to what you say about gambling , I too went to a casino and really enjoyed the whole experience and I can remember as a young adult spending days playing culucee and black jack. I have however always refrained from playing cards on a Sunday as I was brought up to believe it was wrong to play cards or gamble on a holy day . This may seem absurd to some but it was and still is a part of my family beliefs and traditions , something I will carry on with my daughter.
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