That's a great way to put it!

I’ve gradually started using more UX-friendly alternatives to the tools I've used for so long, and I don’t think the time spent learning those lower-level tools was wasted at all.

If I ever switch to a MacBook (since they're easy to carry around and have good battery life), I’d probably feel the same way as you do. But I don't see that happening shortly since I don't see an immediate need or benefit of it.