The Cuckoo's Egg (Good vs. Evil)

Almost any ability can be embraced by a wide spectrum of ethical code. Take for example film. A director can choose to create a compelling piece of art that uplifts and transcends, or at the very least, exploits issues that demand a social awareness. However, a director can also make a film that simply taps into our carnal senses and does nothing but derails and degrades it's viewers.

In the Cuckoo's Egg, Clifford Stole finds himself on the good side of computer espionage. Stole's innovative thinking and determination helps him to eventually track down German spy, Markus Hess. The fascinating thing about this story is the similarity in Hess and Stole's talents and methods. Both were spies, both were trying to stay undetected, both had to be clever, both had to have a profound knowledge of computers, operating systems and networks. However the reader finds these two to be ethically polar opposites. The reader finds themselves cheering for Stole and hoping for the capture of Hess, while technically they are doing very similar work.

In our pursuits in this life we may find ourselves in professions with equally polar outcomes. I don't believe those who chose the "evil" end of the spectrum initially start heading that direction. Rather individuals find themselves developed in their talent and then an opportunity comes along and a decision has to be made whether to do what's right, or do what's easy. It is only when people use this power for good that societal progress is made. We will all find ourselves at the crossroads one day, no matter what our pursuits, passions and talents. The question will be, what will we decide to do once the opportunity finds us. The two paths start in the same place, and are often quite difficult to discern. The choice will define us and will result in our contribution to society, one way or another.