CQQ #24: Thanks in Times of Trouble...?

Are troubles keeping you from being thankful?

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Thanksgiving week is here. But to not let it become overshadowed by Black Friday (a time when gratitude can often be replaced with greed and entitlement), it's a good time as any to remind ourselves what we're thankful for, and let that motivate our attitudes and choices.

It's okay to admit when you're feeling down. It's okay to acknowledge that things are not okay. We don't have to pretend. Being thankful is not about masking our pain but rather clinging onto hope despite our pain.

CQQ #23: Gossip and Rumors...?

When is it really our business to speak about others?

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Thank you, HonnieBunnie007, for suggesting this topic!

Many people have a fascination with mystery, from "juicy" secrets to unconfirmed theories. Many like to fantasize about the what-ifs and all the possibilities of the unknown. Some even find it exciting.

And then there's talking about other people...behind their backs. That's where there's great potential for pain and misunderstandings and broken trust.

CQQ #22: A White Lie...?

Would a white lie stain a white knight's armor?

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Many can agree that lying is bad. No one likes to be deliberately misled or have one's trust come into question. But what happens when a lie is told to better a situation in the long run? What if lying could save a life or keep the innocent from suffering? (Think superheroes, who keep their identities a secret, even if it means lying, to protect not only their personal lives but especially their loved ones from the danger of becoming a villain's targets.)

Some call this the "white lie", a lie that is supposedly minor, harmless, or possibly beneficial for the greater good.

But is it okay to lie for a good cause?

CQQ #2: Is This Gambling...?

Looks innocent...or is it? (Dun dun duuuun...)

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Before you think about quickly passing judgment, just read—I mean really read—and think about it. Gambling has its legal restrictions and is considered illegal in a number of locations. But have you considered where gambling could be found in legal, more "innocent" or indirect forms?
 
Let's first ask ourselves, "what is gambling?"
 
Gambling is the act of betting your money (or something of value) in a game of chance (an event with an uncertain outcome) in hopes of winning a prize. When we think of gambling, we usually think of casinos and similar means of illegal activity involving money.
 
Now think about those carnival, festival, or state fair vendor booth games; you pay actual money to participate in their game for a chance to win a prize. Or those local arcade games where you pop in some quarters (or tokens that you pay real money for) for a chance to collect exchangeable tickets. Or betting on a horse in those horse races. Or online gambling/betting games or certain app games that utilize actual money. Even those $1-scratch-off cards and lottery tickets that can be purchased at a convenience store require a spending of money for a chance to gain riches.