Thanks for the words of encouragement, everybody.
I really like the attention involved in using a straight. It makes shaving that much more of a ritual, that much more of a ceremony.

I have been infatuated with straight razors since I was very young. Honestly, I don't know why it took me so long to start shaving with one.

To tell the truth, I was surprised it didn't slice my face off. Straight razors are much smoother shavers than I expected. The dangers are different than I expected, and I have little worry I shall learn to avoid them in short order (blood is a great negative reinforcer).

I will continue to try and work the left hand into things, if only because I can't do it now. I like a challenge .

Some of my Gillettes might eventually get sold off to fund straights, but I could never part with my single edge safety razors. Until I get proficient enough to tackle shaving my head with a straight, the G-Bar (or micromatics or ever-ready) is still my go to in that department. Also, like was mentioned, I'd rather lose a Micromatic to the airlines than a straight.

Now I need some hones, and a hanging strop from Mr. Miller. I have a line on what I think is a vintage barber hone, but Nortons are in my future for sure.
I ordered a couple of Wapis off Ebay to eventually try my hand at getting a razor shave ready.
I never knew shaving could constitute such a fulfilling hobby.