I've grown to be a big fan of public transport. I've had a substantial commute in both Berlin and London, but public transport in both cases. Obviously I'd rather not have to do it, but it's had benefits for me. It's time every day when I'm "unplugged," and have a chance to read, something I'd found I'd done less of in recent years.

So, yeah, commuting can be a gift in disguise. But only if you're "lucky" enough to be able to use public transport. Not to mention the environmental benefits.