Gamblers Following the Yellow Brick Road

31 January 2012

We are off to see the Wizard the wonder elusive Wizard of Oz. Because, because…… well, because of the wonderful things he does. But along the yellow brick road we are faced with the wicked witch of the east and Glinda, the good witch of the west. Who we encounter depends upon whether we are winning or losing.

Gamblers like the characters in the famed fable have characteristics that emulate our gaming style. Every player has their own technique that defines who they are. But there is one common denominator between us all and that is reaching Emerald City where somewhere over the rainbow, a pot of gold is waiting.

The Cowardly Lion

This is the type of gambler who isn’t willing to take risks. They are the safe bet players who play only the odds that are in their favor. If only they had the courage to wager on the long shots from time to time they could win 5, 10, 25 times more than the even money odds. They hold on to their imaginary tail and quiver at the thought of taking such a chance. Courage - you’d be brave as blizzard, courage – you’d be king of the forest, courage - if you only had the nerve. The Wizard of Oz soon reminds you, gambling no matter how big or small the stake is a risk in itself and that my dear lion takes courage.

The Tin Man

This gambler rules with their emotions. When the winning is good you feel invincible and push it to the next level and raise the stakes and sing the praises of winner. When you’re on a losing streak you’re determined to be the victor and break the cycle. And like the Tin Man that needs oil to temper the squeak, you vent to anyone who will listen as you kick and stamp your feet. You’d be tender; you’d be gentle and awful sentimental if you only had a heart. You’re driven by passion and the love of the game, why without it there’d surely be no thrills. The great Wizard reminds you, you play with heart and soul, yes a heart, a real thumping beating heart. How else could that adrenaline rush escalate the excitement you feel?

The Scare Crow

This gambler always plays within his means. He sets limits and once his bankroll is zero he has the discipline to call it a day. No win is too small for this player and he rarely gives it back once he fattens up his wallet. He is not a binge gambler but instead a conservative gambler. But he wonders about the “what ifs” had he stayed in the game just a bit longer would he have hit the jackpot? I would not be just a nothing, my head all full of stuffing, if i only had a brain. But the wise Wizard reminds you that you are a smart gambler and it takes thought and fortitude to have the control that you do, and couldn’t be done without brain.

As for Dorothy, she clicked her heels three times saying “there is no place like home to gamble”. She says goodbye to the yellow brick road and left behind Emerald City where the adventures of gamblers never cease.