(A thread inspired by discussion on another thread.)
 
I know there are several here and on BROL that get really upset when car drivers seem to slow way down and follow beside and/or behind us to get a look at our machines, take pics, and want to ask questions. Many people have heard of these 'lay down' bikes, but few have actually seen one. Now that I own a velo, the curiosity is even greater. One will have a difficult time in a velo if you are an introvert.
 
[There was recent discussion on Facebook (the recumbent trikes page, I believe) that asked if you let people sit on or ride your steed. I do, because I'm a recumbent minister! I'm out to convert those that want to ride in comfort and style!! But this is another discussion, I digress...]
 
So, as I have done in the past, I'm actually taking some free advice given to me by a member on this board: "Ride your ride." Now I know there will be some who adamantly oppose my opinion, and that is OK, remember it's MY opinion.  
 
I have decided to no longer worry about Lookie Lous. Idiots are another topic, but the Lookie Lous are mostly harmless. I have long accepted the fact that I'm much slower than any vehicle with a motor; in fact I'm slower than many vehicles without a motor, mostly present company. And I don't even care. I love to ride, and if my pace is not yours then that is fine. My pace is not that of a car. But considering those cars, I have made a conscious decision to no longer care if they follow me for miles at a slow pace. I no longer care if they don't want to go around. I have been on many a ride where they seem to hover behind me, either afraid to pass, just plain curious (and working their phone to try and capture the moment), or something else. I keep an eye on them, but am no longer concerned if I'm slowing them down.  
 
I have a right to be on the road, and they have an obligation, it is the law in most places, to share the road (not the lane). And you will find me pretty much in the middle of the lane, especially in the velo. (As a side note, I believe I'm right with my Maker, and I have a pretty good life insurance policy, and Kim knows how I feel about all this, and she is good with it.) Now, all that said, I'm still a courteous driver and consider the traffic, especially if I can see a big line of cars behind me and will pull over at my earliest opportunity, but at the same time if someone chooses not to pass me when they can do so safely, then that is on them. I live out in the country, and see many a farm tractor out here...funny how no one really seems to be upset when they get caught behind one of those traveling 15 MPH.  
 
The biggest benefit for me now: a more enjoyable ride.    
 
Additionally, now that I have my GoPro on pretty much all of my rides, I'm amazed at how courteous most drivers are. For some reason, people really can see that little camera. One guy on a ride a few weeks ago pointed it out, by commenting to me: "You even got your little GoPro mounted there!" Which also goes against the argument about not being able to be seen on the road....yet another discussion.