I am compelled to address David Collin's May 6 column titled, "The woman on the next bike over said I wasn't pedaling fast enough."

First of all, the Stonington YMCA employees are wonderful! However, they might want to consider displaying signs that remind members that the gym is a judgment free and respectful place.

Secondly, as a retired school psychologist, I studied and often discussed the cause of presumptuous adults who impose boldness, without permission or justification, and demand that some stranger change his or her behavior to comply with rules they feel are important. The origin of presumptuousness lies in childhood. When a family suffers from an emotionally or physically vacant parent, the child is elevated to a position of authority where children don't belong. These entitled children bring that bossy behavior to school and display it to teachers, classmates and playmates. They grow up and exhibit the same presumptive behaviors. You'll recognize them; they enforce rules that they're not in charge of.

I'll bet, Mr. Collins, that your pedal pusher fits my hypothesis. The next time she approaches you on the bike, don't make eye contact, and don't remove your headphones. Just keep pedaling at your pace!

Kevin McMahon

Groton