Interesting post.
I can safely and honestly say that in some ways, I agree with you. I work to improve my odds (of everything) before booking, at the airport, before the flight, in flight if there's WiFi, and even after I land (to make sure the miles posted before shredding the BP).
Yet, 99% of the time, what I've learned in FT has vastly improved my travel experience and that of anyone who listens to me. Do I
know I know more about travel than the average flyer? You bet. A little OCD about my travels? Perhaps. But well worth it overall and FT gets the majority of the credit for "upgrading" this FFs travel happiness.
PS: Before anyone flames you, I'd encourage you to edit your post and create some paragraphs or sections. It makes my eyes hurt as it reads now.

Thanks.