(IMO) Linux is more than a Kernel it's a way of life. Using Linux has not only taught me more about computers, but it's changed my perspective on reality, I feel it empowers me to live a free and open life. Free in the sense can I control the path I take, and open in the sense that I can more easily share and communicate my ideas with others its not only taught me self reliance but also inspired me to learn new things, and in the FOSS world there is no shortage of new and exciting things.