'HD' , as a total package is vastly superior to the current/last generation technology it but despite being available for a few years now the technology still costs too much for most consumers, studios and broadcasters.
The problem is that a television, a video recording and a TV channel can all be called HD because they meet certain criteria but they are not fully utilising the power of the technology.
So I agree with you that currently it is hard to see, or afford, the benifits of HD but in a few years time you will wonder how you ever used to watch what you are watching tonight.