Is Winning the Lottery a Curse?

Who in his right mind wouldn't be completely ecstatic in winning a huge multi-million dollar lottery? Some people play the lottery on occasion. But there are hordes of people who have incorporated the purchase of lottery tickets into their daily routines. Whether you play strictly for entertainment purposes, or to catapult a luxurious lifestyle, the result of landing a windfall in the lottery can bring more heartache than relief.

THE PROBLEM WITH THE LOTTERY...

Demographic records have dictated in the past that the heaviest lottery contributors are usually the poorest members of society. It can also be said that those who are the most desperate for a big break are those who are actually providing that big "break" to others who ultimately win.

The lottery, which is essentially gambling run by the state, is used to fund causes like education. The majority of the monies paid out is dedicated to lottery prizes. The rest is divided amongst education funding, and the expenses required to run the game itself. Thus, the lottery itself may not necessarily be corrupt. It is in essence what is done with game prize money that makes the concept of a lottery questionable.

SOME HORROR STORIES

For every smiling face of a lottery winner, there is another winner whose countenance bears something a bit more disillusioned. These are some of the unfortunate dozens who have realized that winning is not always everything:

· Evelyn Adams/ New Jersey/ $5.4 million- This lucky lady won the NJ lottery not once, but twice, once in 1985---and then again in 1986. Unfortunately, today all her money is gone and she now resides in a trailer. Her windfall dwindled rapidly due to relatives and friends who constantly requested handouts for various reasons.