I would not say that any Linux distro is "crippled" because it lacked a particular functionality. The distro gives you a starting point from which you can build your own custom system.
I am very frustrated that I cannot use Fasttrack and Photoshop under Linux, but these are not "crippling" factors--they are issue to be worked.
The ergonomics of linux will evolve naturally with the demographics of the user base. There are already many potential users for whom I can set up a linux box that is easily as friendly as MS.

Ok, Maybe a little "lame" would be a better description of the Totem player. I tried to play a non-copyrighted disc with no real success. As I said in an earlier post, I got sound, but only some kind of swirls on the screen as it tried to play it. I know it is a good dvd because PowerDvd plays it just fine.
I don't have the computer on-line that I have Ubuntu installed on, so the easy way to install all this extra stuff is out for now. Maybe I should try to get it on-line. I use BellSouth dial up. What would be my first step?
Wanting to feel the joy!
unclejerry