Galt, I am sure that Shanti would think that life has given you more than it has given to her. She sure had wished that she had a life like yours. Rewards in life are not the outcome of your efforts. As Sndy does, I believe in fatalism. Fatalism gives a reason to satisfy when you trail behind your ambition. Fatalism is an excuse for my insufficient effort and huge dreams. Sure you are opinionated.Everyone who writes should be. Isn't it a good thing as long as you hurt your image which you haven't? It is always great to read how events, people and environment evokes your thought process.