I know the intent of the thread is comparing and contrasting modern times with 150+ years ago, so I do agree that this is better than that. However...
I sometimes consider all of these things a curse. I have got into the habit of listening to podcasts or Youtube videos when I workout in my garage, go walking, eat a meal, etc. But the last few times, I realized I'd rather have the quiet; it's nice to do things in peace once in a while. Once I finish up a couple of TV shows, I've decided to take a step back from video entertainment and try to fill my time with other things: reading, playing an instrument, or some kind of home improvement project. Over the weekend, I fixed a broken drawer, cleared a clogged drain, and installed a new faucet, and those were the most enjoyable things I'd done all week because I actually accomplished something.
I miss the days of playing cards or chess by candle light when the power went out. I guess a forced return to simplicity is why I like camping with friends so much. It's just food, fire, and friends (the three F's?).