Google sucks at launches. They've sucked before with the Nexus S and they've sucked before with the Galaxy Nexus and they are sucking now with the Nexus 4. I agree with most of what this article says too:
"Nexus 4 Launch is a Failure"
http://www.phonearena.com/news/Nexus-4-launch-is-a-failure-for-Google-Play_id36581
Having said that, you're likely only cheating yourself if you pass on a device that you wanted and will likely use
daily for presumably the next year or two, maybe more.
Getting the Nexus 4 wasn't about being first or an early adopter. Getting the Nexus 4 was about getting the stock Android experience. It makes no sense to go back to a less desirable OS because you couldn't switch fast enough.
Again, don't get me wrong. I understand the frustration.