The reason that most are upset about the lack of NFC is that inclusion on an iPhone would ensure mass adoption by retailers. It would also make NFC tags readily available for those that wish to use them. In many ways, the iPhone having this feature would help to advance the features and benefits of it for everyone.
Think of NFC the same way you might an app like Key Ring on Android. The app allows you to keep all those discount cards (Safeway, Kroger, Barnes & Noble, Pet Smart, Sports Authority, etc) on your phone and out of your wallet. While key ring is wonderful there are still many retailers that use very old scanners and they still can't properly scan your bar code from your phone's screen. Now imagine they don't have to. You can just walk up and tap your phone against the scanner or the credit card machine. The computer sees your card info and auto adjusts your bill.
Now image that same technology will automatically turn on your bluetooth and connect it to your car once you get in. It will automatically turn your wifi on or off when you enter the house. You could use it as a way to lock or unlock your front door, your computer, unlock/lock your car or even start your car. It could grant you access to work or clock you in. It could allow guests to sign in to your guest wifi network. It could sync your phone to your tv as a remote. It could be used to check the ingredients in a pizza you are going to cook. It could put you on the reservation list at a restaurant. It could help you keep track of what equipment you used today at the gym. Even if you don't want it to replace your credit cards, what about gift cards? Wouldn't it be great to avoid carrying those things around? Especially when you have no idea what the remaining balance is on one. This would allow you to carry the cards and know the balance.
There are so many possible uses beyond just banking with this technology it isn't even funny. Think of something you would like to be able to do just by tapping your phone against something and with NFC it is a possibility. That is why it is so interesting. There are things we've never even thought of before out there just waiting.