If I had a million dollars.....

I don’t usually play the lottery. I figure my chances of not winning far outweigh the chances that I will win.

I know how the adage goes: “If you don’t play, you can’t win...”. But I just don’t believe that I have the kind of luck that will fit the odds of winning.

However....for the last three weeks, I’ve been in a pool with some co workers for the Mega Millions.

Last night’s winnings were for $370 million. Split amongst 20 of us, we would’ve had roughly $18 million before taxes.

Now that’s some serious money. Nowadays, a million dollars isn’t what it used to be. I wouldn’t turn my nose up at it, however it’s not life altering money anymore. But $18 million?! That’s life altering money.

So for the past few days I was thinking about what I would do if I was to win. I don’t normally play that kind of game; rearranging my life in my head as to how I would spend the money, and who I would share it with. I’m far too pragmatic for that type of thinking usually. But I have to admit, I was sucked into it over the past week or so. I actually got a little excited at the hope of possibly having the chance to win; thinking that maybe I could be that “1 in 172 million”.

I didn’t win, clearly. Two other people or groups were the ticket holders. Some one in Georgia (Mellissa?) and someone in New Jersey woke up this morning to a whole new world.

And once again, with a brisk reality check – I remember why I don’t play the lottery.

The way I see it......luck is something we make....chances are what we take.....and what we “win” is the path in life we walk every day. It changes from time to time, and there are always hills and obstacles to overcome, but that’s okay. Everything else is gravy, right?

Ok. A little extra money wouldn’t hurt any. I’m sure I’ll play again if there’s a big enough winnings to get my attention. I just won’t get so excited about the possibilities.