It's the show time mentality that is the sadness.
I am now in a diocese where that has been an overwhelming theme, evidently. From what I can tell there is an odd mix of strong devotion and flakiness. I will trust that Our Lord brought me here cause he knows that I will be of use and can grow here. He's already led me to a wonderful group of lay Domincans, very serious about their faith, and I will walk in trust.
But o, I miss my former parish!
In my experience, there is always one "gem" that is around. You just need to seek it out. Even in the most liberal of places (well almost always...), you might be able to find the "pearl of great price."
God be with you!