HN user
My assumption is that FB bought Whatsapp for its attach business AKA for its data minning opportunity. I bet they won't throw ads in there, but rest assure that if you're talking vacations with your group "Family", you'll see a suggestion around that via Facebook site/mobile, and so will the rest of your family.
"But the point I have in mind is this: Business and life are built upon successful mediocrity; and victory comes to companies, not through the employment of brilliant men, but through knowing how to get the most out of ordinary folks."
At a high level, I believe that's the essence of the story (whether is real or made-up).
Today, in a globalized world economy with saturated markets, we are lured into thinking that "the great next thing" will be a product of "brilliance". I think this is a good reminder that it's not. That in fact, on average, sustainable success is a product of a life's work and dedication to a purpose. That in fact, the Jobs, the Zuckerbergs and the Gates of the world are merely outliers and that we should look beyond the expectation of immediate and flamboyant returns.