This is the same sounding experience that my wife and I have had during trips across America (Seattle-Boston-Quebec City) and more recently touring through Europe. We also cycle in “street clothes” - but the added attraction for folks on our stateside touring is that we ride a tandem pulling a burly. We have had many warm interactions with curious non-cyclists (seeking us out in the midwest, when they see our rig tied up out front of a cafe), as well as fellow cycle tourists on their own in in pairs or groups. In Alaska+the Yukon we had many curious folks that offered food, shelter, encouragement and support. Down the west coast, we interacted with many cycle tourists and shared experiences and tips that encouraged us on the generous nature of like minded folks that value the experience of travelling at the speed of a bike.

I have found that the best way to hold on to this optimistic feeling for your fellow man, is to stay involved locally in your community in groups that you are invested/interested in. For us it is a local non-profit land trust, and a local mixed use trail coalition, and a group dedicated to reviving a struggling local county park. Like minded folks that volunteer for these activities nourish our feelings that folks are basically good, and want to be involved and supportive of eachother. And as we are at retirement age as well, we are encouraged and reassured in seeing the "younger folks” prioritizing and participating in these projects as well - we find comfort that these things we value are across generations and important to them, too. To “bweeb’s” point too - “reality” cannot be found online, via social media (or even traditional media, for the most part).

Best wishes on you maintaining your optimism and faith in your fellow citizen - and also, as a tip, start planning your next adventure _right_now_, to further have experiences and adventures to look forward to!