[Mercutio57]

I'm glad to see that this all worked out well in the end. I enjoy seeing what others are experimenting with, and it found it upsetting to see what had happened. No one, I think, wants to drive anyone else away. The way we communicate, however, often leads to all sorts of misunderstanding and offense.

For what it's worth, I find the following formula to be very helpful:

Directness of speech (including all forms of sarcasm, teasing, etc.) should always be in direct proportion to the degree of intimacy in a relationship. Old friends can trade even the roughest of jests without offense; casual acquaintances are best treated with professional courtesy.

By the way, I couldn't quite see how the comment on reflectors got into the mix here, but I just removed mine. I didn't care for the look, almost never ride at night, and honestly doubt their real efficacy. New York only requires a rear facing one, which is already part of the GZ taillight mount.