To begin with, count per diem. That puts you at about $50M. It doesn't take into account flying above the guaranty. Since you were in this for the money, I can only assume you would be adding to your monthly hours. Many of us do...or did.

What kind of government assistance is offered to people who make $50M a year?

'Poverty' is clearly defined in this country. $50M a year is nowhere close. Even on the Left Coast. I realize it won't pay for a new Volvo every year or let you shop in those yuppie food stores where everything is organic, but you'll find a way to scrape by on fifty grand.

Comparing pilot pay scales to a plumber's is pointless. If that is what you want, then go be a plumber.

The fact is that in this business we are paid what we are worth. Now that the unions have been largely stripped of their power, that's the unfortunate reality. It's not what many want to hear, but it's what they will find. Also, it doesn't take Chuck Yeager to fly a typical airliner. Most reasonably experienced pilots with some multi-engine time can make the grade. But some do not...and it's seldom simply a matter of hours or equipment. The days of the "The High and The Mighty" are over...and I'm not that sure they ever really existed. Back in the glory days of the early 60s, the legacy carriers were putting twenty-somethings into the left seat of 707s. Not much has changed in principle.

So...if someone wants to be like John Wayne in that picture, then strap on tight...it's going to be a bumpy ride. On the other hand, if Bill Gates is what you have in mind, then go back to school.