The first step is always to succeed in becoming surprised, to notice that there is something funny going on

Tempers are short. But I'm surprised that this happened. I can't even understand how a brother could take that step.

As for Gates himself, ... he is no visionary; he is a technology groupie with a genius for showing up, for being at the right place at the right time.

His career delivers this message: It can be wiser to follow than to lead. Let the innovators hit the beaches and take the losses; if you hold back and follow, you can clean up in peace and quiet,

If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried

When that light went on, if you didn't notice it, he certainly did. I would be surprised if John is as abrupt and severe as the boss.