You put this concept into words so well, and did a fantastic job supporting it with data and simulations. I wrote about something similar earlier, actually in this same publication, called "Becoming a Millionaire." It has the same concept, investing early and using compound interest to achieve retirement goals early by saving a portion of your income.

I'd love to link to your story in mine as I lacked the graphical data and visualizations you included that brought your point home.