I don't doubt you are fast, but I would suggest that a computer doing a
1,000 nm cross country could do it faster than you

What is the value in that? A beginner with a "point-and-shoot" camera
can take a picture of Half Dome at Yosemite a lot faster than Ansel
Adams could, but is that how you would judge photography?

And I'll wager Ansel Adams got a lot more fun and satisfaction from
doing it his way than the person with the point-and-shoot.

There is no way a pilot can call the many FSS's and get briefings from
each of them

Why would anyone want to do that?

.... I'm apprehensive about a big cross country.

It's good to be cautious, but experience will enable you to overcome
apprehension.

I disagree with the 2 pilots who claim they don't need, nor understand anybody using it. I
believe to not use it is irresponsible and that's why we have pilot's breaking TFR's daily,

Now you've gone off the deep end. Do you also think it's
irresponsible to fly without a GPS? How about flying a J-3 with no
radio?

I've been flying since 1946, both civilian and military, and have
never wandered into any area I shouldn't have. GOOD PLANNING is
important. It doesn't have to be done with a computer program.

plus the sad habit of not getting briefs.

That's another matter entirely.

vince norris