There are two kinds of beginner RC flyers: Those who see the need for an instructor and those who will see the need soon. Yes, it does happen that some people learn to fly and land just by reading articles on RC flight and figuring it out. But most who try that wind up with a box of sticks. At that point, they either get out of the hobby or get some help.
How did they do it before buddy boxes? They crashed more. And they flew planes that were slower and less maneuverable. That's why buddy boxes were invented, so that students wouldn't crash as much.

To the OP: I love the enthusiasm coming from you and I hope you wind up successful in the hobby. It sounds like your goal is to destroy a perfectly good airplane, possibly several, by going it alone. If that is the case, I am sure you will succeed. If your goal however is to learn to fly airplanes in the least amount of time and with the least possible expense, then join a club and get an instructor. People on RCUniverse aren't being mean to you by telling you the truth. Every one of us has been where you are and we are sharing facts with you, not opinions. It is a fact that your chances for success are significantly higher if you get some real instruction on a buddy box. If that doesn't work with your vision for what the hobby will be for you then by all means go ahead and do it your way.