(Disclaimer: I work at Stripe, but commenting purely in my personal capacity.)

> I wish I could buy stock.

Something I wish I'd internalized much earlier in my life: if you're a programmer or otherwise have skills relevant to a startup (many HN participants fit this bill!) then you do have access to stock in companies like Stripe. In exchange for your time and expertise, they will pay you in both stock and cash.

My contact information is in my profile and I would love to help anyone I can in this endeavor.