Hmmm. Is it time to declare it "over"? (NOT a relationship Q!)
June 10th, 2011 at 2:46:52 PM
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I seem to have lost the love of casino gambling. And it doesn't bother me one way or the other that I feel that way.
Back at the end of April, Mrs Mosca and I want casinoing, we had a bad night and lost; I lost about $800, she lost about $300. It had been a stormy night, with several inches of rain.
When we got home, we'd found that the sewer line had backed up into our house, through the commode in the finished basement. We opened the door between the garage and the basement and found about 8" of raw sewage in the house.
To shorten up the story considerably: it cost $10k just to clean out and sanitize the house and garage. That doesn't include the cost of replacing the possessions that were lost, everything from the washer and dryer to shoes that had been left by the door. (And of course insurance didn't cover it... that is an optional separate rider in the policy. And I DISTINCTLY remember saying, TWICE, "That's never going to happen to me," and initialing the declination of coverage.) So far since then it's cost about another $8k: washer and dryer, new carpeting, TV, and some other stuff. But I did lose all my records (vinyl LPs, I was a collector) above "Wh"... my original Yardbirds. Zappa. Neil Young. They were on a shelf too close to the floor. Argh. Tube amps, gone. Oh, well. Just things. It's no consolation, but other people around the country are surviving much worse. So we'll survive. It's just things. It's just money. That's not what we wanted to spend it on, but we had the money to cover the loss. It hurt, but we did it.
But what I've lost is the feeling of security that allows me to think of gambling money as disposable income. My perception of $500 has changed, from a number that I could lose once a month, or more accurately lose $400 of one month, and use to win back $350 another, to money that I'd rather know I have. It's back to when I first used to go to casinos, and I couldn't bring myself to bet $10 on a hand of blackjack because I knew how long it took to make $10, and how hard I'd worked, and that it could be gone in seconds.
Mrs Mosca doesn't share this. She still goes up to the casino, and plays her machines. She takes my card and uses both of our free play, and she plays both cards in machines to keep the offers coming. I met her for dinner at the end of May, and I played some. But my heart wasn't in it, I absentmindedly pushed the buttons, and absentmindedly made the decisions with the cards. I lost about $400 and felt like shit. The cards and the machine don't need my emotional involvement for results either favorable or un-. But I do. Because I judge a favorable result not as winning or losing, but as I've written many, MANY times here, a favorable result is if I had one heck of a blast gambling.
Keep in mind, this is not related to losing. My won/loss statements for 2010 totaled -$119, or something like that. Adding them all up from 2005 through 2011, I'm close to even. It's about my perception of the money being worth more than the fun.
Am I over it?
Back at the end of April, Mrs Mosca and I want casinoing, we had a bad night and lost; I lost about $800, she lost about $300. It had been a stormy night, with several inches of rain.
When we got home, we'd found that the sewer line had backed up into our house, through the commode in the finished basement. We opened the door between the garage and the basement and found about 8" of raw sewage in the house.
To shorten up the story considerably: it cost $10k just to clean out and sanitize the house and garage. That doesn't include the cost of replacing the possessions that were lost, everything from the washer and dryer to shoes that had been left by the door. (And of course insurance didn't cover it... that is an optional separate rider in the policy. And I DISTINCTLY remember saying, TWICE, "That's never going to happen to me," and initialing the declination of coverage.) So far since then it's cost about another $8k: washer and dryer, new carpeting, TV, and some other stuff. But I did lose all my records (vinyl LPs, I was a collector) above "Wh"... my original Yardbirds. Zappa. Neil Young. They were on a shelf too close to the floor. Argh. Tube amps, gone. Oh, well. Just things. It's no consolation, but other people around the country are surviving much worse. So we'll survive. It's just things. It's just money. That's not what we wanted to spend it on, but we had the money to cover the loss. It hurt, but we did it.
But what I've lost is the feeling of security that allows me to think of gambling money as disposable income. My perception of $500 has changed, from a number that I could lose once a month, or more accurately lose $400 of one month, and use to win back $350 another, to money that I'd rather know I have. It's back to when I first used to go to casinos, and I couldn't bring myself to bet $10 on a hand of blackjack because I knew how long it took to make $10, and how hard I'd worked, and that it could be gone in seconds.
Mrs Mosca doesn't share this. She still goes up to the casino, and plays her machines. She takes my card and uses both of our free play, and she plays both cards in machines to keep the offers coming. I met her for dinner at the end of May, and I played some. But my heart wasn't in it, I absentmindedly pushed the buttons, and absentmindedly made the decisions with the cards. I lost about $400 and felt like shit. The cards and the machine don't need my emotional involvement for results either favorable or un-. But I do. Because I judge a favorable result not as winning or losing, but as I've written many, MANY times here, a favorable result is if I had one heck of a blast gambling.
Keep in mind, this is not related to losing. My won/loss statements for 2010 totaled -$119, or something like that. Adding them all up from 2005 through 2011, I'm close to even. It's about my perception of the money being worth more than the fun.
Am I over it?
A falling knife has no handle.
June 10th, 2011 at 3:04:28 PM
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Mosca- I had the same 'sewer shit' happen in my house. My beautiful full finished basement is no more. We had one estimate for 40,000 to clean it up, with hazmat suits, all sorts of crap. We found a local 'disposal' company that did it for about $1200 (cash). I needed to pay someone else a few hundred dollars to make sure there was no 'black mold'. I did have insurance which paid for most of what I lost, but I never redid the basement. We had to have my front lawn dug up for a new sewer pipe, too.
I would say your lack of love for gambling probably is not as related to your sewer incident as you think. I need new games to keep me interested. I can barely play blackjack, I can barely play craps. Pai Gow cards are getting less interesting, too. Since I never gamble enough to make a difference one way or another, I need the GAME to interest me. Try picking up a new game and see if that rekindles your enthusiasm.
I would say your lack of love for gambling probably is not as related to your sewer incident as you think. I need new games to keep me interested. I can barely play blackjack, I can barely play craps. Pai Gow cards are getting less interesting, too. Since I never gamble enough to make a difference one way or another, I need the GAME to interest me. Try picking up a new game and see if that rekindles your enthusiasm.
June 10th, 2011 at 3:05:26 PM
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Yeah, I feel pretty foolish playing anything other than advantage VP. I've gotten real bad about being enticed to play those "fun" penny machines and losing substantial amounts. I'm going back one more time and having no alcohol. Hope that keeps me sane!
June 10th, 2011 at 3:07:54 PM
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I'm really sorry to hear about the damage to your house. That's the one surprise to beat all surprises, as far as houses go at elast. it sucks.
As to your question, it may be a temporary thing. You shouldn't gamble if you don't enjoy it. If it were me I'd take a break and see how I feel later on.
As to your question, it may be a temporary thing. You shouldn't gamble if you don't enjoy it. If it were me I'd take a break and see how I feel later on.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
June 10th, 2011 at 3:14:18 PM
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I have had more than a couple interests come and go over the years. So, that part doesn't seem at all unusual.
Of course, you're mentioning a secondary problem, so maybe it's different than just something that has run its course.
Of course, you're mentioning a secondary problem, so maybe it's different than just something that has run its course.
Sanitized for Your Protection
June 10th, 2011 at 3:15:47 PM
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What else have you done for fun that costs the same as a trip to the casino?
It might not be that you are over casino gambling but rather you can't feel justified in spending any money on entertainment.
It might not be that you are over casino gambling but rather you can't feel justified in spending any money on entertainment.
June 10th, 2011 at 3:27:02 PM
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I'm sorry to hear about that.
Probably best to take a break for a while until you get back on an even keel.
Probably best to take a break for a while until you get back on an even keel.
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
June 10th, 2011 at 3:49:26 PM
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I'm guessing this is a temporary thing, if it isn't then just keep coming here anyway [g]
The thing about needing a new game: may be a bigger problem. There is a whole bunch of them to try that unfortunately have the HE just a bit higher than I can tolerate! Perhaps a guy just needs to keep an eye out for what might develop. A lot of competition going on.
The thing about needing a new game: may be a bigger problem. There is a whole bunch of them to try that unfortunately have the HE just a bit higher than I can tolerate! Perhaps a guy just needs to keep an eye out for what might develop. A lot of competition going on.
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
June 10th, 2011 at 4:02:09 PM
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Quote: Mosca
Mrs Mosca doesn't share this. She still goes up to the casino, and plays her machines.
I think women look at slots differently then we do. They seem to get caught up in the hypnotizing effect more than men do and they get a thrill from playing. I can't play slots, never could. I understand how they work and I hate them with a passion. I hate that my wife plays them, it makes me ill to watch her. At least prior to 2008, she used to win $500 or $1000 or $1500 once in awhile, but not anymore. She never wins now, but that doesn't stop her from going.
"It's not called gambling if the math is on your side."
June 10th, 2011 at 9:27:22 PM
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A few points...
"Lost the love" but "doesn't bother (you) one way or the other"? I'd have to question this love you speak of. (I'm not intending to be critical, bear with me) Perhaps there's something about the casino scene you enjoyed that can be replaced by something else. I don't know exactly what revs your engine about a casino, so I can't give examples, but as a 'for instance' I have a personal example. I used to 'love' baseball. Many years later I found I actually hate baseball, but what I loved was the attention and competition I found in baseball. When I tore my rotator and could no longer play as well or compete without severe pain, it was very upseting. But I was able to find other things that filled that 'attention and competition' itch that I had, and I'm actually happier doing those than baseball (especially because I found I hate baseball ;)) In other words, it was kind of a blessing.
Same goes for the money aspect. Getting a reminder of what a dollar's worth is something everyone should be so lucky to have (maybe not by a an acre of poo in the basement, but you know..) If the money thing's a big part of this, I will say that I think that will pass. I too spent money as it came in on whatever I wanted, and then had my Dodge's engine grenade 1k miles past the warranty and had a several thousand dollar bill as a result. It didn't bury me, but it was close, and kind of made me gun shy about spending on entertainment for a while. But it does wear off. I'm more careful now, but not super uptight like I was right after it happened. I'd expect that part to pass.
I guess if I were you, I'd quit...FOR NOW. Regardless of any money fears, "you felt like shit", "your heart wasn't in it", and you judge your outing on whether you "had one heck of a blast". You're not currently enjoying it, so don't force it. Open yourself to allow it to come back, if it so chooses, but in the mean time find what it is about it that you liked and open yourself to new experiences that may offer the same. You might get pleasantly surprised.
Quote: MoscaI seem to have lost the love of casino gambling. And it doesn't bother me one way or the other that I feel that way.
Quote: MoscaBut what I've lost is the feeling of security that allows me to think of gambling money as disposable income. My perception of $500 has changed, from a number that I could lose once a month, or more accurately lose $400 of one month, and use to win back $350 another, to money that I'd rather know I have. It's back to when I first used to go to casinos, and I couldn't bring myself to bet $10 on a hand of blackjack because I knew how long it took to make $10, and how hard I'd worked, and that it could be gone in seconds.
Quote: MoscaBut my heart wasn't in it, I absentmindedly pushed the buttons, and absentmindedly made the decisions with the cards. I lost about $400 and felt like shit. The cards and the machine don't need my emotional involvement for results either favorable or un-. But I do. Because I judge a favorable result not as winning or losing, but as I've written many, MANY times here, a favorable result is if I had one heck of a blast gambling.
"Lost the love" but "doesn't bother (you) one way or the other"? I'd have to question this love you speak of. (I'm not intending to be critical, bear with me) Perhaps there's something about the casino scene you enjoyed that can be replaced by something else. I don't know exactly what revs your engine about a casino, so I can't give examples, but as a 'for instance' I have a personal example. I used to 'love' baseball. Many years later I found I actually hate baseball, but what I loved was the attention and competition I found in baseball. When I tore my rotator and could no longer play as well or compete without severe pain, it was very upseting. But I was able to find other things that filled that 'attention and competition' itch that I had, and I'm actually happier doing those than baseball (especially because I found I hate baseball ;)) In other words, it was kind of a blessing.
Same goes for the money aspect. Getting a reminder of what a dollar's worth is something everyone should be so lucky to have (maybe not by a an acre of poo in the basement, but you know..) If the money thing's a big part of this, I will say that I think that will pass. I too spent money as it came in on whatever I wanted, and then had my Dodge's engine grenade 1k miles past the warranty and had a several thousand dollar bill as a result. It didn't bury me, but it was close, and kind of made me gun shy about spending on entertainment for a while. But it does wear off. I'm more careful now, but not super uptight like I was right after it happened. I'd expect that part to pass.
I guess if I were you, I'd quit...FOR NOW. Regardless of any money fears, "you felt like shit", "your heart wasn't in it", and you judge your outing on whether you "had one heck of a blast". You're not currently enjoying it, so don't force it. Open yourself to allow it to come back, if it so chooses, but in the mean time find what it is about it that you liked and open yourself to new experiences that may offer the same. You might get pleasantly surprised.
The opinions of this moderator are for entertainment purposes only.
June 10th, 2011 at 10:19:12 PM
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I expect you are comfortable, but not rich, and the required financial outlay to repair the damage really put a spike in your finances and put things in absolute perspective.
Really, it would be a Hobbesian choice, having to choose between spending money at the casinos or replacing your high end stereo equipment and LP collection.
Seeing your Conrad Johnson, or Audio Research / whatever swimming in a sea of your own $shit, then realizing you'll have to pay to remove, repair and replace everything: that would put gray hairs in your beard.
Give it time; odds are you'll be back, but if you aren't: hey, it's all good.
If I had to choose between giving up gambling or living without my high end stereo equipment and home theater: bye bye casinos.
Really, it would be a Hobbesian choice, having to choose between spending money at the casinos or replacing your high end stereo equipment and LP collection.
Seeing your Conrad Johnson, or Audio Research / whatever swimming in a sea of your own $shit, then realizing you'll have to pay to remove, repair and replace everything: that would put gray hairs in your beard.
Give it time; odds are you'll be back, but if you aren't: hey, it's all good.
If I had to choose between giving up gambling or living without my high end stereo equipment and home theater: bye bye casinos.
"What, me worry?"
June 10th, 2011 at 10:53:18 PM
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VTL 150 monoblocks and Martin Logans.
I'm the only guy I know who uses a CJ MV45 in his garage system. I've been a tubehead since 1968, when I built my first ST-70 and PAS-3 (I've had close to a dozen ST-70s over the last 40 years). Now the MV will come inside and power the Signets, which come down from the living room. The SOTA/SME/Benz Micro stayed up high, they are safe.
Yes, comfortable, but not rich. I worked for that stuff, and now I'll have to rework for it. It's not like I killed the entertainment budget over this, but things got rearranged in my brain. I spent May's casino money on a Big Green Egg (a kamado style charcoal cooker) and table. It's just like I lost $1000 at the casino, but I have an Egg, too.
I dunno. I'm more amused that it happened. Life is still awesome, it always has been. If I go again, great; if I don't, great.
I'm the only guy I know who uses a CJ MV45 in his garage system. I've been a tubehead since 1968, when I built my first ST-70 and PAS-3 (I've had close to a dozen ST-70s over the last 40 years). Now the MV will come inside and power the Signets, which come down from the living room. The SOTA/SME/Benz Micro stayed up high, they are safe.
Yes, comfortable, but not rich. I worked for that stuff, and now I'll have to rework for it. It's not like I killed the entertainment budget over this, but things got rearranged in my brain. I spent May's casino money on a Big Green Egg (a kamado style charcoal cooker) and table. It's just like I lost $1000 at the casino, but I have an Egg, too.
I dunno. I'm more amused that it happened. Life is still awesome, it always has been. If I go again, great; if I don't, great.
A falling knife has no handle.
June 10th, 2011 at 11:08:44 PM
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Quote: Mosca
I spent May's casino money on a Big Green Egg (a kamado style charcoal cooker) and table. .
Excellent choice. I've had mine for over 20 years. Try cooking pizza in it - fantastic flavor.
June 11th, 2011 at 1:24:00 AM
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Quote: MoscaArgh. Tube amps, gone
I'm not sure about tube equipment, but often electronic equipment can be dried out. Not that probably helps you now anyway, but it's good to know before tossing electronics. Keep them off and dry for week. Maybe even bury them in rice.
(i never got as far as you in audio, though I remember looking at some electrostatic speakers -- Had a new Carver amp, and some direct to disk records, Just before digital audio I was investing in specially made records that required a dynamic range expander to get the full benefit. You may be able to tell me what those were now, as I've forgotten the details. I bought a single play sony cdp 101 for $900 practically when they were invented (the sister of the Phillips player). Still have the manual though not the player. But I have a feeling you don't appreciate digital if you're a tube enthusiast.)
Sanitized for Your Protection
June 11th, 2011 at 6:46:38 AM
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Naw, digital is cool. Everything has compromises, and there are times when it isn't a good idea to put on a record... and there are times that nothing but a record will do. As crappy as compressed audio sounds, I am hooked on it, and couldn't live without a usb memory stick to carry from car to car. Compressed digital sound is still better than cassette tape.
In my mind, these are all manifestations of hedonism... hedonism on a budget. My nature is such that instead of spreading the budget around lots of different little things, I toss it ALL in one direction. It just might be that gambling has run its course.
In my mind, these are all manifestations of hedonism... hedonism on a budget. My nature is such that instead of spreading the budget around lots of different little things, I toss it ALL in one direction. It just might be that gambling has run its course.
A falling knife has no handle.
June 11th, 2011 at 8:36:44 AM
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Quote: MoscaIt just might be that gambling has run its course.
There are period predictions that America will lose it's fascination with gambling, but I don't think it will go easily.
Quote: Time Magazine Monday, Apr. 01, 1996
NO DICE: THE BACKLASH AGAINST GAMBLING
By MARGOT HORNBLOWER/BALTIMORE
...
Only last fall, the Maryland activists quashed casino-company efforts to turn Baltimore into a new Atlantic City, despite $1.3 million in industry campaign contributions to state legislators. But the gambling interests returned, with bills to allow slot machines at racetracks. "We're tightening the perimeter," says Grey, pacing the meeting hall. "If they penetrate the racetracks, the next step is slots in restaurants! Just today I got a call from New Hampshire: the legislature killed two bills to allow slots at dog tracks. Say 'A-men!'"
"A-men!" the audience intones. Since 1988, when Congress opened the way for Indian reservations to set up full-scale gambling, casinos have moved from being the private preserve of two states--Nevada and New Jersey--into the American mainstream. With 126 Native American tribes reaping profits from gaming, commercial companies argued for equal rights. So far, 24 states have legalized casinos, while 37 have embraced lotteries, lured by the prospect of easy money in hard fiscal times.
...
Now boom is giving way to backlash.
Since this article was written only the following states do NOT have a lottery, and Nevada obviously does it to prevent competition.
Hawaii
Utah
Alabama
Mississippi
Alaska
Wyoming
Nevada
June 11th, 2011 at 9:18:15 AM
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Mosca, I would definately consider taking a break. Give yourself a couple of months off, or maybe even a whole year, from the casinos. Save your money, create a bigger bankroll and take a trip to some place more exciting then your local casinos... like Las Vegas!
Sorry to hear about your house. But my bet is that if you take a break, you will eventually return to gambling once your situation has changed.
Sorry to hear about your house. But my bet is that if you take a break, you will eventually return to gambling once your situation has changed.
June 11th, 2011 at 5:07:06 PM
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This is the FOURTH time I started to write a post in this thread.
All my earlier attempts were deleted because I kinda came off as an uncaring ass.
So let me start by stating that I'm determined to post this time. I'm sorry for your home situation, as well as your bad gamble on the insurance. Please forgive my possible lack of tact.
---
To be blunt, I get the feeling that part of the reason you're taking a break, is because of that very bad gamble on the insurance. Pardon the pun, but shit happens.
It also seems like you're looking for our permission to declare it 'over', and are planing to ask us to forgive you when you eventually fall off the wagon and return to your old gambling habits. This ain't no seven-step support group for gamblers who want to quit. I mean, if you really want to quit, hanging around gamblers (even a gambler's chat board) isn't gonna help.
If you're merely taking a break, that's cool. Whether you come back when finances get better, or merely when the itch needs to be scratched, that kind of break is something we can understand and support. And hanging out here, to live the gambler's life vicariously thru our stories and posts is fine, if that's what you want.
If you're looking for advice on how you can scratch the itch on a budget, I suggest you join a poker league.
All my earlier attempts were deleted because I kinda came off as an uncaring ass.
So let me start by stating that I'm determined to post this time. I'm sorry for your home situation, as well as your bad gamble on the insurance. Please forgive my possible lack of tact.
---
To be blunt, I get the feeling that part of the reason you're taking a break, is because of that very bad gamble on the insurance. Pardon the pun, but shit happens.
It also seems like you're looking for our permission to declare it 'over', and are planing to ask us to forgive you when you eventually fall off the wagon and return to your old gambling habits. This ain't no seven-step support group for gamblers who want to quit. I mean, if you really want to quit, hanging around gamblers (even a gambler's chat board) isn't gonna help.
If you're merely taking a break, that's cool. Whether you come back when finances get better, or merely when the itch needs to be scratched, that kind of break is something we can understand and support. And hanging out here, to live the gambler's life vicariously thru our stories and posts is fine, if that's what you want.
If you're looking for advice on how you can scratch the itch on a budget, I suggest you join a poker league.
I invented a few casino games. Info:
http://www.DaveMillerGaming.com/
Superstitions are silly, childish, irrational rituals, born out of fear of the unknown. But how much does it cost to knock on wood? 😁
June 11th, 2011 at 6:58:55 PM
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Hi Mosca,
As I try and read between the lines of your post, I come away with the following impression. I believe you are saying that you have no gambling remorse, but you no longer are feeling a thrill from a casino visit. And since we all know this isn't about the money (if it is, you will be disappointed), if you are not enjoying the act of gambling, there really isn't any point in being there. And I think you are asking the rest of us if this is a reasonable and valid feeling for an educated casino player.
Ironically, I have been going through a similar mindset, albeit for a different reason. The night I met you was the last time I have been in a casino. I had been running bad at the craps tables, and that little card session I had with you was pretty indicative of how bad things had been going for me. I had an 8 hour drive in front of me when I left Pocono Downs at 10:30 PM, so all night long as I drove, I thought about the total amount I had spent in 2010 on craps play, and then weighed that against all the 'free' trips, rooms, meals, etc. that my wife and I had been taking. The numbers still work out okay, but I realized my passion for craps was no longer there. I was still enjoying the play, but starting every session in the hole was turning every session into a grind, and that was weighing down my fun factor. I had been playing in PA and Biloxi, so my Harah's play dropped below Diamond and my offers from them were going back to crappy. Contributing to my 'lost' feeling was this site. Well, not this site, but the behavior of a few disruptive individuals on this site. So, I realized I was not enjoying this site, and I was not enjoying the game, so I took a break. Didn't log into the site for a couple of months, didn't do anything craps related at all. Just recently I started checking in every so often.
I'm headed to PA late in June, and plan to stop at Pocono Downs on the way up. Hoping for a 2-3 hour session, and perhaps check out one of the restaurants. If I have a break even or better session, then I may play with friends at Hollywood on our way back home. I want to stop, but it's not like I would be heart broken if we didn't stop. So, some of my passion for the game of craps seems to be coming back. And since I checked back in here, everyone appears to be playing nice again. Plus, instead of trying to keep up with every thread, I just browse the thread titles on the first couple of pages. I'm sure I am missing some good threads, but this is working for me right now.
My advice is to listen to your heart, and take some time off. Maybe that means just avoiding the casino, or perhaps it means taking a break from all things gambling related, like this site. If you do take a break, your heart will tell you when it is time to come back, if it ever is time. It may be a week, a month, a year, or perhaps you will find you just aren't missing it at all. And really, how can that be a bad thing? Losing the passion to play games that have negative expectations doesn't sound like something to lose any sleep over. Good luck my friend as you move forward with your choice. I wish you the best.
As I try and read between the lines of your post, I come away with the following impression. I believe you are saying that you have no gambling remorse, but you no longer are feeling a thrill from a casino visit. And since we all know this isn't about the money (if it is, you will be disappointed), if you are not enjoying the act of gambling, there really isn't any point in being there. And I think you are asking the rest of us if this is a reasonable and valid feeling for an educated casino player.
Ironically, I have been going through a similar mindset, albeit for a different reason. The night I met you was the last time I have been in a casino. I had been running bad at the craps tables, and that little card session I had with you was pretty indicative of how bad things had been going for me. I had an 8 hour drive in front of me when I left Pocono Downs at 10:30 PM, so all night long as I drove, I thought about the total amount I had spent in 2010 on craps play, and then weighed that against all the 'free' trips, rooms, meals, etc. that my wife and I had been taking. The numbers still work out okay, but I realized my passion for craps was no longer there. I was still enjoying the play, but starting every session in the hole was turning every session into a grind, and that was weighing down my fun factor. I had been playing in PA and Biloxi, so my Harah's play dropped below Diamond and my offers from them were going back to crappy. Contributing to my 'lost' feeling was this site. Well, not this site, but the behavior of a few disruptive individuals on this site. So, I realized I was not enjoying this site, and I was not enjoying the game, so I took a break. Didn't log into the site for a couple of months, didn't do anything craps related at all. Just recently I started checking in every so often.
I'm headed to PA late in June, and plan to stop at Pocono Downs on the way up. Hoping for a 2-3 hour session, and perhaps check out one of the restaurants. If I have a break even or better session, then I may play with friends at Hollywood on our way back home. I want to stop, but it's not like I would be heart broken if we didn't stop. So, some of my passion for the game of craps seems to be coming back. And since I checked back in here, everyone appears to be playing nice again. Plus, instead of trying to keep up with every thread, I just browse the thread titles on the first couple of pages. I'm sure I am missing some good threads, but this is working for me right now.
My advice is to listen to your heart, and take some time off. Maybe that means just avoiding the casino, or perhaps it means taking a break from all things gambling related, like this site. If you do take a break, your heart will tell you when it is time to come back, if it ever is time. It may be a week, a month, a year, or perhaps you will find you just aren't missing it at all. And really, how can that be a bad thing? Losing the passion to play games that have negative expectations doesn't sound like something to lose any sleep over. Good luck my friend as you move forward with your choice. I wish you the best.
Always borrow money from a pessimist; They don't expect to get paid back !
Be yourself and speak your thoughts. Those who matter won't mind, and those that mind, don't matter!
June 11th, 2011 at 7:40:23 PM
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Quote: DJTeddyBearTo be blunt, I get the feeling that part of the reason you're taking a break, is because of that very bad gamble on the insurance. Pardon the pun, but shit happens.
It also seems like you're looking for our permission to declare it 'over', and are planing to ask us to forgive you when you eventually fall off the wagon and return to your old gambling habits. This ain't no seven-step support group for gamblers who want to quit. I mean, if you really want to quit, hanging around gamblers (even a gambler's chat board) isn't gonna help.
If you're merely taking a break, that's cool. Whether you come back when finances get better, or merely when the itch needs to be scratched, that kind of break is something we can understand and support. And hanging out here, to live the gambler's life vicariously thru our stories and posts is fine, if that's what you want.
If you're looking for advice on how you can scratch the itch on a budget, I suggest you join a poker league.
Thanks for being blunt. It's OK.
I actually think the insurance was a good gamble that I lost. Look at it this way. The coverage is capped in PA at $10k, and there is a $1000 deductible. So I saved $6/mo for 20 years, $1400ish, and I'd have been responsible for the first $1000 and everything over $10000 anyhow. And a lot of that is going to be tax deductible. So overall, the loss isn't going to be all that much; it's the TIMING that sucked.
The other part, you're projecting that. I wouldn't look for permission from a bunch of anonymous guys on the internet, nor ask forgiveness if I changed my mind; I'm not connected to anyone here physically or emotionally. WoO and WoV are diversions for me that pass the time when I'm slow at work. As far as quitting, it's neither here nor there. I don't get casino urges. I could walk from work to the Mohegan Sun in about 20 minutes, drive there in 5; at the most Mrs and I were going 2-3 times a month.
My motivation for posting is that I think it is an interesting thing that happened to me, that it's gambling related and I think others might find it interesting. I've gotten some pretty interesting information and insight spending time here. A lot of folks here are math guys. Gambling is human. It has social and psychological dimensions that I find interesting... I find fascinating.
Quote: RaleighCrapsHi Mosca,
As I try and read between the lines of your post, I come away with the following impression. I believe you are saying that you have no gambling remorse, but you no longer are feeling a thrill from a casino visit. And since we all know this isn't about the money (if it is, you will be disappointed), if you are not enjoying the act of gambling, there really isn't any point in being there. And I think you are asking the rest of us if this is a reasonable and valid feeling for an educated casino player.
Gordy, this is pretty accurate. DJTB, Gordy and I have met, and I think he will tell you I'm pretty down to earth and normal. FYI, we sat next to each other and played Pai Gow Poker, and I don't think he hit but maybe one hand in 90 minutes. I had a modest win, on the order of $100-150 (what were we betting, $40/hand?). If I had that kind of run over a long stretch, I'd quit too; it was brutal. The one time he had a decent hand, I think it was a full house, the dealer tied him on the pair and it split. I was cringing at his bad luck. He's exactly right. If it's not fun, don't do it. And that's how I feel.
Quote: RaleighCraps
I'm headed to PA late in June, and plan to stop at Pocono Downs on the way up. Hoping for a 2-3 hour session, and perhaps check out one of the restaurants. If I have a break even or better session, then I may play with friends at Hollywood on our way back home. I want to stop, but it's not like I would be heart broken if we didn't stop. So, some of my passion for the game of craps seems to be coming back. And since I checked back in here, everyone appears to be playing nice again. Plus, instead of trying to keep up with every thread, I just browse the thread titles on the first couple of pages. I'm sure I am missing some good threads, but this is working for me right now.
Heck, we'll come up and meet you, if you stop in. I didn't draw any lines in the sand, if it's fun I'll do it and if it's not I won't, and we had a great time meeting and chatting with you. We'll take you to dinner outside the casino if you want, I'll join up and play table min if Mrs Mosca wants to go to the casino (I haven't asked her, she does). It depends on the days and times, but that's an offer.
A falling knife has no handle.
June 13th, 2011 at 1:49:22 PM
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Mosca, I appreciate your honesty and insights. I think it is actually a good thing to have a reality check every now and then to keep things in perspective.
I have come across many players who are actually chasing the action, feeding a "need" to win, and finding temporary validation if they do. But if/when they lose, it hurts their psyche, as they realize they are greedy mortals, and not invincible. They realize that they don't enjoy the activity per se, nor the camaraderie, but are pursuing the glory of being a "big winner", even if it is only a fleeting thing in their own mind. Unfortunately, many only come to this realization after losing more than they can afford.
I am glad to hear that you are about even as a lifetime total. As you know, (but perhaps don't fully appreciate,) your current lifetime gaming win/loss total is unusual. It is more common to find situations where the casino slowly, (or quickly) drains a player's bankroll, and the player chases it further down the hole hoping to get back to even.
I do find it interesting that Mrs. Mosca still enjoys her machine play, while you are not enjoying your past game(s) of choice. Perhaps you should have a conversation with her about this phenomenon, and explore what it is about her play that she enjoys. It may help you get past the "funk".
Another thing to consider is that you could take the money from your gaming budget and spend/invest it in more things that will provide positive, lasting results for others truly in need, rather than the temporary personal satisfaction from playing a game using optimal strategy. Endow a scholarship, support a local charity in a tangible way (instead of just writing a check, purchase something they need). Consciously use the funds that would have been spent on gaming to do something new, rather than supplementing/redirecting money that already would have been donated in your normal course of activity. It will be fun and rewarding. Keep us posted on how it goes. I wish you and Mrs. Mosca the best.
I have come across many players who are actually chasing the action, feeding a "need" to win, and finding temporary validation if they do. But if/when they lose, it hurts their psyche, as they realize they are greedy mortals, and not invincible. They realize that they don't enjoy the activity per se, nor the camaraderie, but are pursuing the glory of being a "big winner", even if it is only a fleeting thing in their own mind. Unfortunately, many only come to this realization after losing more than they can afford.
I am glad to hear that you are about even as a lifetime total. As you know, (but perhaps don't fully appreciate,) your current lifetime gaming win/loss total is unusual. It is more common to find situations where the casino slowly, (or quickly) drains a player's bankroll, and the player chases it further down the hole hoping to get back to even.
I do find it interesting that Mrs. Mosca still enjoys her machine play, while you are not enjoying your past game(s) of choice. Perhaps you should have a conversation with her about this phenomenon, and explore what it is about her play that she enjoys. It may help you get past the "funk".
Another thing to consider is that you could take the money from your gaming budget and spend/invest it in more things that will provide positive, lasting results for others truly in need, rather than the temporary personal satisfaction from playing a game using optimal strategy. Endow a scholarship, support a local charity in a tangible way (instead of just writing a check, purchase something they need). Consciously use the funds that would have been spent on gaming to do something new, rather than supplementing/redirecting money that already would have been donated in your normal course of activity. It will be fun and rewarding. Keep us posted on how it goes. I wish you and Mrs. Mosca the best.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
