silly question about pedals

[Eden]

It depends on what kind of riding you intend to do. If you are thinking about joining group rides and keeping up with others, if they are riding clipless you will definitely be at a disadvantage. If you are riding by yourself, for commuting, fitness, utility, etc. it won't matter so much.
What cages or clipless pedals give you is the ability to pull up as well as push down, so you use the full pedal stroke rather than just 1/2 of it. It makes accelerating and climbing more efficient.

You can get pedals that are clipless on one side and flat on the other. Having that option may help you to get comfortable using clipless pedals (and will allow you to ride no matter what shoes you are using). Clipless pedals are actually easier than toe clips (cages) to get into and out of, especially if you choose a dual sided pedal, like SPD's, Speedplays or Crank Brothers