Originally Posted by
thirdin77
Regarding your doubt, I don't think it's a bad thing if it forces you to ride more cautiously than before. I have developed the habit of catching myself when I become too comfortable, telling myself to be a little nervous and more alert. Regarding the risk we take, yes, it's real and any of us could be killed in an instant. All we can do is to minimize the risk, through our own behavior, and then to accept it. Or stop riding. Take your pick- doing what you love and living how you choose or not taking the risk and having a higher degree of safety. Can't have both, really.
+1 Couldn't have said it any better. I try to ride with both confidence and fear; each in their proper proportions (not unlike any number of other human activities).