In regards to being away from home as a pilot, there are many other professions that require it. As a result, you do miss out on important times in family life, but that is part of the job. Everyone who even contemplates becoming a pilot should know and understand this. Alot of professions, especially in the business world where I used to work, caused me to miss things that I wish I would have been able to go to. So even individuals that dont travel, and have a desk job are still away from there family a ton. Its a blessing that as pilots we have at least 14 full days off a month.