I've been thinking a lot recently about where I live. In the UK. I think its a very boring country. The weather is depressing, Pubs everywhere, Betting shops everywhere, Gambling on TV every advert break. I'm not looking for an escape goat for my gambling problem which I have recently stopped. I just think that this country doesn't help. We don't have the weather to keep ourselves occupied and happy. With a lot of our activities being in doors. People may find gambling away of passing time in betting shops to stay out of the bad weather and to get out of the house. I wonder how many warmer countries have as much gamblers as the UK ? I bet not a lot because their time is spent on the beaches having fun with family and friends. I can guarantee that a lot of peoples weekend starts with a bet, down the pub and a kebab on the way home. Its a horrible thought to think how many more people will become addicted in years to come, lose all they have, get into debt and hate themselves.
Hi Al1988, good to see you are still posting here my friend, hope today is a good day for you.
The difference country-wise is that most other countries don't have High Street Bookmakers like we do, also some countries have a total ban on internet gambling.
You describe a very urban setting my friend. People who live outside of larger towns are less confined by the weather and routine - the weather shouldn't stop anyone taking advantage of the stunning countryside and coastal areas that this country has; there are few more beautiful things that off-season, peaceful resorts.
We are also lucky to have Pubs; other countries either don't have any, or have bars - even though we are losing some, it is important that we keep these communal facilities open. To see America and other places, where there are miles upon miles upon miles of houses where there is nowhere to meet each other or socialise is depressing.
The people you describe are either stuck in a rut, or don't make enough effort to change their lives; I gambled for twenty years, I forgot what it was like to live, to think, create, walk and breathe - now, I have a zest for exploring and learning things; weather means nothing to me - it won't stop me doing what I want to do.
Don't let your area or circumstances drag you down my friend - if you feel this way about these kind of people, then you need to make the effort not to join them; you and your life is important, not them - lead by example, show them the way, show them how it should be done.
You will find that people occupy Bookmakers all through the year my friend - nothing would stop someone who wants to gamble. I trudged seven miles through thick snow once; all there was was Chilean and Virtual Racing - it still didn't stop people, and nothing would.
I respect your opinion my friend - as I said, the main thing is you; this country is incredible - it is one of the few in the world where you can visit places like London, the Isle of Wight, Cornwall, York, Blackpool - all very different places, all within a few hours of each other, but too many people do get stuck in a rut as you say; the weather is a factor, but it shouldn't be.
JamesP
I see where you are coming from Al but the facts dont bear your theory out. Australia has the highest number of problem gamblers per capita and yet for most people in UK see it as a dream destination of warmth and masses to do.
Deeds
Phil Mawer
Author "Overcoming Gambling"
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