Recently, some friends told me that they lived vicariously thru me and I found it surprising. Maybe I take things for granted, but I don't think anything I've done is particularly special or unattainable. Sure, I've had some cool experiences, but so can anyone. I'm not smarter, luckier or better educated than anyone else, but I guess I'm willing to take a gamble.
Life is filled with daily subconscious gambles. That street you didn't cross- maybe you just saved yourself from being hit by a bus. That guy you talked to in the grocery story line, maybe you'll be having his kids in 3 years. You just never know!
I would never define myself a gambler in the literal sense. I've been to a casino 3 times in my life and 2 of those times I was escorted out of the casino. And it wasn't for reading cards. When I was in Vegas, I spent $20 on the nickel slots and it lasted me 3 days! The thought of dropping a $100, $50 or even a $20 bill on a hand of cards makes me break out in a cold sweat. Yet when it comes to gambles in life, I don't hesitate! Some have worked better for me than others (going to fashion school, moving to Switzerland) while others have epically failed (moving to, marrying a d-bag). To borrow a line from Kenny Rogers: "you gotta know when to hold em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away and know when to run"
When I left Vancouver for an unknown life in Germany, it was a big gamble. Huge. I was leaving family, friends a comfortable job and an apartment behind. A lot of people said "wow, I could never do that". Well, technically, you can, but you have to put your chips on the table. And if things don't go particularly well, cut your losses and move on. I mean you don't want to be the only person left at the blackjack table crying in your free beer!
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