ABSTRACT. We survey briefly some fifty years of thinking about physics and probability with the aim of explaining: (1) What I did not know then, but know now; (2) What I have been trying to accomplish in science and education, and to what extent these efforts have succeeded; (3) What remains unfinished, but where I think the greatest future opportunities lie; and (4) What personal and professional advice I can now give to young people (and wish someone had given me fifty years ago).

Introduction

A meeting like this is an overwhelming experience! I was overwhelmed not only by the sheer number of people who came here from so far; but even more by the kind sentiments expressed. Of course, I had looked forward to seeing again many former students and colleagues and had expected to have chats with each one, to renew our friendship and bring us both up to date about the other's work. But what one can actually do in two days is so helplessly short of what one wants to do! Some of the participants had to leave without our being able to talk at all; there was simply no time for it. Then perhaps this reminiscence can serve as a substitute channel for conveying my thanks and appreciation to all of you.