Mike, trying to make sense of things is an amazing trip. Some things do bare examination but others certainly deserve nothing more than a "hum" and a raising of the eyebrows. Especially when you DO get older. I've seen so many older people contemplate the past from their easy chair and I'll admit it is interesting, to say the least.
I know it's cliche but hindsight is 2020. Maybe ... ah,well, where is my sprite zero.
Get back to you.