As an expat living in a country where I speak the language poorly (probably much worse than your Finnish), I can relate. I've known a couple of Finns; their comfort with silence is something that I, as an American, had trouble adjusting to.
I think people have always had a tendency to check out of life, to not feel it slipping away - which may be one reason that some many great philosophers and religious teachers remind us to concentrate on that. But it's so much easier now. The damned phones make it so easy.
You lead me to ask myself if I engage with life or not. I'm pretty much a total hermit these days, but there are a number of ideas and issues that I engage with in my own mind (and with the occasional friend patient enough to listen to my ruminations).
Maybe, though, I'm just Alonso Quijano reading romances of chivalry and dreaming I'm Don Quijote.
Very interesting post. Much to think on.
RE: Carried on a Scent