Big money is up for grabs in the Mega Millions drawing tonight, and when I say big money, I mean over half a billion dollars. That’s right, the jackpot for this highly-anticipated drawing is now sitting at a whopping $512 million. This is the fifth time in the Mega Millions history that the drawing has topped the $500 million mark.
There have been 22 consecutive drawings that resulted in no winner, meaning that tonight at 11 p.m., someone could become very rich if they pick the right numbers. With news that the jackpot is climbing, ticket sales are sure to skyrocket and you have all day in order to rub your rabbit’s foot in hopes that your numbers line up.
However, since this is WiseDime (where we try and help you keep your wallet in tact) let’s talk about the concept of gambling and the U.S. lottery system. It is enticing moments like these that influence and promote gambling addictions, as the prospect of winning trumps the rationality of purchasing tickets. People are too focused on the potential win that they do not fully see the consequences of dumping money into what will probably be a hopeless cause.
I might just stop and pick a ticket up on the way home, but only one. I think testing your luck every now and again can give a healthy rush to your everyday life. However, if you’re one of those people that needs to be in on every single Mega Millions drawing, maybe it’s time to reevaluate what you could be spending that extra money on.
