Steve-
I totally agree with your above post.
I have been driving about 60 years with everything from tractor trailers, tow trucks, army vehicles, motorcycles, etc, etc.
I'm aware of certain conditions that will deteriorate as you age.....even though I still think I can drive as good as ever, I'm definitely aware of this and take this into consideration. Thankfully, in all this time I've had only 2 minor accidents and mucho parking tickets. :)
When I was in my early 20's I was a charter member of the Long Island Timing Association, which sponsored Police sanctioned drag meets, auto modifications, auto shows. There were no such things as Skip Barber performance schools, but we all learned from the experienced members who drove in the Bridgehampton auto races on Long Island. (1950's) If you're interested you can read this book that was published last year> http://www.arteauto.com/press/pressreleaseoctober2004.htm
All in all, I feel, with age comes wisdom in all experiences in life.