actually, I think it is better. your dishes stay in better shape because they aren't subjected to such high-temperature water. you can examine the pots and such to get every last bit of food off. etc etc. not to say that I don't wish I had a dishwasher sometimes, but even if I did, I'd still be handwashing a lot of things.
sorry to hear yours is broken!
I think hand washing can be therapeutic. I normally zone out and think about all sorts of things while my hands are busy in warm, soothing water.
