Though I cannot do many types of bike maintenance yet, mostly due to lack of proper tools, I consider learning to maintain my own bike a very attainable goal. It does, in fact, promise a greater sense of independence. I was extremely limited in my ability to do my own repairs on my car.
Yet it is convenient to let the shop do things for me, as long as it's not the really simple things.
Mike, you are my inspiration in this area.