HAROLD KELLER

Lottery robs us all of dignity Powerball fever – it would be amusing, and almost funny, if it weren’t so sad. The prize was $300 million, and the players were millions of people hoping, some even praying, to hit the jackpot. Easy money to answer the desires of many to have an easy life. I understand that four people had the winning numbers. Having to split $300 million – what a big disappointment! Each will receive approximately $75 million before taxes. One of the winners is a laid-off worker – a divorced father from Kentucky. According to the news Sunday, he and his fiancee were making the rounds in a silver Mercedes-Benz convertible a friend had loaned him until he could buy his own. Ninety-one others won $100,000 by having the first five numbers. One hundred thousand dollars – chicken feed compared to $75 million. Money – money – money – the answer to all problems? Could be, if attained and used in a godly way. Is money the root of all evil? No. The love of money (greed) is evil. Could I handle $75 million? No way! I get in enough trouble without money. Could I handle $100,000? Yes, I think I’ve matured enough to put it to good use. Will I ever win the money? That’s impossible, because I never buy a ticket. Do I condemn the people who do? No, that’s their choice. However, I do feel sorry for the people who get so wrapped up in the frenzy of becoming instant millionaires and some, spending money that could be put to better use for their families. I have to admit that I get a little aggravated when I’m in line at an establishment that sells lottery tickets and the line is long because people are buying tickets and looking at them as their last chance for the good life. I understand that people came from Texas, Florida and Mississippi to buy tickets. To all the losers Saturday night: You can be comforted that until the next big Powerball, you have video poker and the casinos to chase the rainbow in hopes of finding your pot of gold. If it sounds like I’m anti-gambling, I am. I think that it has been a curse on this state. HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477, or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, La. 70084.