"How would you guys define your passion for aviation?"

I've heard it said more than once that aviation is a jealous mistress, but man is she worth it. If you have the drive to really stick with it. You'll get to see things out that front window that you never ever would if you were stuck behind a desk somewhere. I had an office job before I started flying and there's no way that I could go back. It hasn't been the easiest career, I've moved all over the country for work and was flying 135 until the economy downturn and now I'm instructing again. If you can keep the spirit that you're flying because you love flying then the rocky spots aren't so bad. At least in my opinion...