The Lottery in the US

Many countries around the world have lottery games and the United States is no different.  You pay a small amount of money for a chance to win a big amount of money.   I don't play the lottery often because quite honestly I don't like to lose.  And since it's a game of chance if you win or lose, it is all because of luck.   

So, to quote the famous character Harry Callahan from the American movie Dirty Harry -
"you've got to ask yourself one question:  Do I feel lucky?  Well, do ya, punk?"

I do.  I feel lucky!   I admit it the excitement of becoming an instant millionaire sometimes draws me in.  My favorite type of lottery game is instant win scratch off tickets.  Near the door of most grocery stores there are vending machines that sell colorful tickets that cost different amounts and have different prizes.

Here is a lottery ticket I bought recently.  It cost $1 and the idea is you scratch off the $ marks with a coin.  This will reveal a money amount.  If you find 3 matching amounts, you win that prize.

So, did I win?  Well, I think you can tell from the goofy picture of me above that the answer is NO.  Next time I think I'll save my dollar for the soda machine.  At least that way I'll have something to show for my money.

Some facts about the lottery in the US
- You must be 18 years old to play.
- Not all states have a lottery.  Each state decides if they will have one or not.
- The money raised from the lottery goes to things like education and road improvement.  I bought my ticket in the state of Pennsylvania and the money is used for programs that help older people in the state.

Now it's your turn to talk.  Do you ever play the lottery?  What type of lottery games do you have in your country?  Is it a good idea to play or is it a big waste of money?  Join the conversation in the comment section.