Hey DooDah, welcome! Sounds like you've already put a bit of energy into exploring the spice. I'm

In my forties as well, with a decades long psychedelic background, but with my life being the particular thing it is at the moment, the short duration of DMT suits me really well. Just don't have time for shrooms anymore! Plus, I really enjoy the intensity of DMT visuals, being a visual artist and all.

So it didn't take you long to discover why so many of us get preflight anxiety before launch. It's a heavy experience that can go so many different ways. I've had one really hard spice journey (tied to the car and dragged) which hasn't scared me off, but has made me way more conscious about set/setting. Most hard trips are avoidable, but there are some that are essential to your development. Choosing to explore the molecule is a roll of the dice: you will always learn, and with the right attitude, you can always somehow benefit from every journey. But it won't always be beautiful.

That giant face you encountered: to me, this didn't sound like an admonition to stay away... But definitely a message to move forward in a way that is mindful. Take your time, integrate, write down your experiences.

Happy and safe travels!