>Hi Bonnie. Yeah, I guess that firstly it appeals to my own philosophy of life and secondly it makes a lot of sense. It also helps to become more humble.

Somewhat random events have led me to where I am now, so I totally understand where you're coming from!

On another topic this is also a great read - they say he is the closest thing that the security industry has to a rock star - I agree :)
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>http://www.amazon.com/Schneier-Security-Bruce/dp/0470395354/ref=cm_cr-mr-title

Looks interesting. I added it to my list (haven't ordered it, I'll have to think about it).

~~Bonnie

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>>You really take this random stuff seriously Jos!! I have *got* to get one or both of those books that you recommended recently (they are still on my Amazon list). Those concepts of randomness fascinate me too.
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>>~~Bonnie
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>>>>So what is the moral of the story here? Life is what you make it. If you do not like the state of you life, it is up to you to take steps to change it, just like I did. There is nothing extraordinary about me and if I can do it, so can anyone else.
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>>>The mistake in this point is the degree to which random events, utterly beyond your control, actually influence your life - it is not just up to you at all. The role of randomness is far greater than we tend to realize (or want to admit). Being smart and having a willingness to work hard are only pre-requisites for success in life, without them you will almost certainly be on the wrong track. But being clever and willingly to work play only a (perhaps relatively small) part in the final outcome. Hence the moral of the story is be smart and be prepared to work hard and then hope for the best.