I`ve always thought of it this way.
Anybody can drive an automatic,but a manual takes skill.
It`s a totally different feel/experience,because YOU the driver have the control to make it happen versus the auto tranny launching/shifting by itself.
The manual transmission is a whole new ball game compared to an auto.
Once you master starting off,and up shifting,there`s the good old heel and toe downshifting move to master when slowing down for a corner.
I like automatics,(especially when modified with shift kits,etc,or in luxury cars) and feel they have their place,but shifting your own gears doesn`t seem to compare.
Sometimes driving a manual sucks...like being stuck in stop and go traffic going up a hill inching your way up.Otherwise I like it.