The Retreat

One of the more common complaints about people who play poker for a living is that we don't contribute anything to society.  We're leeches, taking money from those who earned it through hard-work, without providing any service in return.  While I don't agree with that sentiment, this entry isn't about defending my profession -- it's about being provided the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world and taking advantage of it.

A friend of mine, Alanah, is raising money for Cystic Fibrosis research and the CFRI's Annual Retreat.  I met her in college and she's a wonderful person -- intelligent, selfless, genuine, and very positive.  At the time I didn't know much about Cystic Fibrosis and to be honest, I still don't -- except that my friend has the disease and from what I've read the life expectancy of those infected isn't much higher than her current age.  It's an incredibly sobering thought.














All too often, I get caught up in my own issues -- ones that are largely unimportant in the grand scheme -- and forget there are people who truly need our help.  According to the website, the retreat "is designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment aimed at enhancing positive coping skills, social support and education for people who share common experiences with CF." 

Since my mad dash in December, I haven't been putting in the hours that I'd like and felt donating a percentage of my profits would be a fantastic way to push myself to play more.  A win-win situation.  Alanah only asked for $5, but originally I agreed to send 5% of today's winnings, only to finish the day in the red.  Whoops.  I've really got a knack for running terribly when I play for a good cause.

Obviously because I lost money today, I don't have any profits to send.  No matter.  Instead of sending 5% of today's profits, I've decided to send 5% of this month's profits.  Unfortunately I'm leaving Chiang Mai on the 23rd, so that only gives me five more days to add to the total.  Good luck, me.

P.S. Offering a $10 discount on any hour of coaching if you donate $5.