I would give it another shot. I was a Vim zealot that converted over with Spacemacs, but I ditched Spacemacs once I knew the names of the packages I used the most. The package `evil` is enough to satisfy your modal editing needs (perhaps you already knew about it). Anything that doesn't fit your workflow can be changed to fit into that same modal editing paradigm. It just takes time but it's worth it in my humble opinion.
Just remember: Emacs' main strength comes from how malleable and extensible it can be. Give it time; don't jump ship after a few bumps. Patch it up with some Elisp and keep sailing.
Just remember: Emacs' main strength comes from how malleable and extensible it can be. Give it time; don't jump ship after a few bumps. Patch it up with some Elisp and keep sailing.