The Deputy Director General for Lotto Games at the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Richlue O. Burphy, has issued a strong warning to children and school-going youth to avoid gambling.
Speaking at the finals of the recently concluded Shining Light National Quizzing Organization competition, where he was honored for his contributions to youth and child development in Liberia, Burphy emphasized the importance of patience and timing in both life and competitive endeavors.
“Wait for Your Time,” He Said.
“In life, as in quizzing, it’s essential to recognize that every opportunity comes with its own timing. You may have the knowledge and skills, but you might miss your chance if you rush into things without preparation. And when the actual time for you to get involved in such activity arrives, you might not enjoy it anymore. Wait for your time because life is about timing,” he cautioned the young quizzers.
Burphy’s warning comes in response to increasing reports from across the country about school-aged children engaging in gambling, particularly through Chinese gaming machines.
“I encourage all of you to desist if you are part of those children because it will distract you from your studies, expose you to adult behaviors prematurely, and might even lead you into deviant activities,” he warned.
Highlighting the risks, Burphy further noted, “And you know the unfortunate situation about it; those Chinese would go back to their country and be with their own children enjoying life. So, please know today that life is all about timing, and if you don’t wait for your time, you won’t enjoy the game of chance when the rightful time comes.”
Beyond the warning, the NLA Deputy DG encouraged the young quizzers to embrace challenges and learn from setbacks. “Every quiz is an opportunity to grow. Don’t be discouraged by losses; instead, use them as stepping stones to improve your skills,” he advised.
He reiterated his belief in Liberian youth’s potential, adding, “You are the future leaders, thinkers, and innovators of our country. Remember, every great achievement takes time and perseverance. Stay committed, and your moment will come.”
As part of his engagement, Burphy also commissioned the quizzers as ambassadors of change, urging them to actively discourage their peers from engaging in gambling activities and report any instances of children playing these gambling machines.
Meanwhile, through its leader, Gospellee Livingproof, the Shining Light National Quizzing Organization expressed gratitude for Burphy’s words of encouragement and support, describing his message as timely.
“Your advice really resonated with us. We often feel the pressure to perform well, but understanding that timing is crucial helps us focus on our preparation rather than just the outcome,” Livingproof remarked.
