Bill Gates leaves Microsoft today. Here's why that's a good thing.

5. (If you love Google) Sets the stage for Google to overtake Microsoft in the desktop office software department.

4. (If you hate Google) Sets the stage for Microsoft to combat Google in the Web-based office tools arena.

3. Now someone else can become the world's third-richest man.

2. Now Gates has a chance to define his life's legacy as something different from being Microsoft's dominant leader for well over two decades.

... and ...

1. Fighting against diseases vs. fighting for computing world domination. 'Nuff said.

Do you think Gates' departure is good or bad for Microsoft? What about for the world?