Once there is seeing, there must be acting. As long as our buttons are pushed, we have a great chance to learn and grow. To me, being an engaged Buddhist doesn't necessarilly lead to distraction. I think most of us are 'in the world'. At least, I know I am very much a part of this world that I live in.
Retreat sounds nice in theory.
But it would be easy to practice well when one is in retreat. Retreat would be nice. It would be peaceful and non-distracting. And, if we are in this world, with all its distractions, then we need to make it the best world we can. That is the true challenge.