THE EDITOR, Sir:

We have been hearing a lot of talk about casino gambling. And the question being asked is: should it be legalised? But when we examine this matter, carefully, the definition or the meaning of casino (and to my knowledge) tells us that casino gambling has been going on already in our country - on a local level.

For instance, look at these types of games: the Lucky Five, Pick Three, Lotto, etc. All these are casino gambling on a local level.

But let us look at gambling on a whole. Jamaica is a Christian country and the church goes out for morality. I'm totally against casino gambling or any other type of gambling.

Furthermore, many people who are against casino gambling (Christians and non-Christians) or any other type of gambling, who believe that they are no gamblers, would be surprised to know that they are a part of the gambling process and are strongly contributing to it.

For example, gambling comes in the mind and also your action and reaction to certain circumstances. I'm sorry I don't have room to elaborate exactly what I mean.

Another example, 90 per cent of all the relationships are based on conditional love (the love gamble) instead of unconditional love. It's like a bargain. And a bargain, to me, is like a gamble (in some way). Just like how Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver; It was described as a wretched bargain.

Conditional love has a strong hold on the church, and it is increasing. And this is very, very sad.

In most cases, a man who is seeking a companion has to gamble for her. He has to present a 'passport' of automobile, money, a strong impression and good vibes, among other things, but more than often there has to be money, money to buy her love. How sad!

Gambling is on the increase and people are desperate for money.

But the irony is that some are doing it at the expense of others. Look at prostitution and the sex-sellers. They are selling their bodies, gambling with their lives. All these are forms of gambling.

Generally speaking, life seems to be a gamble. Some would say this from a non-Christian stand-point. And, in many ways, it seems to be very beneficial to the country. Gambling comes in many ways.

People are caught up in the struggle for survival. And, with this get rich-quick mentality - and so on - it seems like almost every-one is being put to the test, and is faced with all sorts of temptation.

I am etc.,

DONALD JEFFERSON

MCKOY

Concerned citizen