Used to agree, but this slower pace really grew on me.

My grandma in Tucson taught me to always add a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water. It softens the water and helps break down the bean skins. I've never had a pot of beans stay hard using that trick, even with older beans from the store. You might also check the expiration date on the bag, because really old beans just won't soften up no matter what you do.

Ever hear about the guy who found metal shavings in his lens assembly? My buddy traced it back to his own drill press across the shop.