"I would never discourage anyone from entering the field..."

Neither would I. I see many folks at APC, and in real life, that are happy with their career choice. That's why I can't smile and look the other way when people knock the job. I tell things from my perspective, just as you do. It doesn't work out for everyone. There are no guarantees. That said, while luck is everything, I think sometimes you make your own luck by the choices you make. NJA turns you down? Try another frac. If that doesn't fit your plan, then fine, but maybe it does fit the next guys plan and that's how one puts himself in the right place at the right time....which many call luck.