The author reflects on their return to suburban life in Wisconsin after years in Taipei, where urban convenience defined their experience. They contrast the vibrancy of city living with the isolation often associated with suburbs, particularly for younger generations. The pandemic shifted their perspective, leading them to leave a downtown condo for a house in the suburbs, where they appreciate the space and familiarity. The article also critiques the early skepticism surrounding Uber's business model. It highlights the intense debate about the company's profitability and the claims made by various analysts. Hubert Horan argued that Uber's growth was unsustainable, relying on massive subsidies that distorted market competition. In 2025, the narrative shifts as Uber reports a $4.5 billion operating profit, suggesting that the company has overcome earlier challenges and may have found a path to sustainability. Investor Bill Gurley’s insights on valuation models provide context for the skepticism around Uber. He emphasizes the pitfalls of relying too heavily on precise financial models, which can mislead due to flawed assumptions about market size and share. The author asserts that Gurley was correct in his predictions about Uber's growth, particularly in light of the company's significant gross bookings of $93 billion in rides and $86 billion in deliveries over the past year. The tension between initial doubts and current success illustrates the dynamic nature of the tech industry and market valuations.