Shit, sorry brother. That's still gotta hurt a little. I'm glad to hear that you're mustering your shit, and getting ready to keep moving.
I too have stopped with the paper towel method, even though I enjoy actually seeing the root with my own eyes. I broke a couple taproots while planting them. I figure it's better to plant them before the taproot is exposed and vulnerable to clumsiness.
Now I soak the seeds in a shot glass for 12-24 hours, or until they sink without me poking it. Then I set the seed in either an Earth Plug (like a rapid rooter) or jiffy pellet in my trusty Costco Rotisserie Chicken Cloning Tray on a seedling mat, and have to have faith that the little helmet head will poke out in a few more days. I've also planted directly in soil with excellent results as @ FunkyButtLovin says.