Ahh, fair enough, I know what you mean. I do seem to remember people sometimes appearing to think 'hmm, he's a bit old for doing tricks on a bike' but I rarely ride street and it doesn't bother me...
Self-preservation, a little. But I guess I'm different to you in that I'm satisfied just playing around having some fun rather than having to go massive. I can understand how you might end up with a bit of 'inner turmoil' now you don't heal as quickly!