nothing ventured, nothing gained. some people take the view that sometimes in life we have to take chances in order to make progress. i admire such people. it certainly takes guts to take risks. maybe it's because of my upbringing, but i am the type who usually plays it safe.

　　people like me prefer the saying, "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." conservative as it may be, it keeps me out of trouble. i must confess, however, that leading such a moderate life may, at times, be boring.

　　admittedly, my life is not half as colorful or exciting as other people's but at least it gives me a sense of security.