[TS Clark]

That's a thoughful question. And, after thinking about it for a moment, I'd have to say that I think I'd consider them differently. As a person who started their own company, I certainly respect the independent spirit of people who want to work for themselves. My concern would primarily be, as I said, that someone who chose to gamble for living might have a problem working collaboratively with others, being reliable when on another person's timeline, etc.. Working as a freelancer is a whole different ball of wax -- if anything, people who work for themselves might be MORE responsible, responsive, and deadline-driven than conventional employees. Their very livelihood (which depends on word-of-mouth and return gigs) depends on it. I have some real doubt if the same can be said for someone who plays cards for a living.

I'm fully willing to admit this is a somewhat biased viewpoint. However, I know I'm not the only person who'd have these kinds of concerns about someone who chose such a non-conventional "career".