re: a lesson worth the cost

Well, maybe. Unless it was meant to teach me some bad choice or fault of mine, then, I haven't learned at all. :)

If I was supposed to learn that government only cares about itself and self-preservation, and that it will do so no matter what the cost or collateral damage, then I don't know that I needed the lesson, but it certainly cemented it forever as far as I'm concerned.

re: creators

There have been times, if I think about it, where I've created for just the fun of it, or for the enjoyment of others, but that's mostly been for family or friends. Otherwise, the entrepreneurial part of me has expected some sort of financial benefit for the time spent. Except for HIVE, that has not been the case.

re: end of life

Very good sentiments, and most assuredly, because of them, and because you are endeavoring to do so, you are and thus will. :)