I use nixos so im not sure I’d be able to help you, I recommend using the arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Greetd for getting an idea of how to get started even if you dont use arch. I personally use tuigreet as its pretty minimal configuration and nice looking.
Dude I was born in 2000 and I get so mad when I realize how true this is. Apps/“smart” phones might be regarded as the biggest double edged sword in the history of technology.
It literally feels like we are at a moment in history where we are evolving backwards by force. This will only worsen as the ipad babies grow older.
You will own nothing and be happy. You will also know nothing and be happy.