Most of the posts here say don't do it because of money. While I believe we all should be well paid and we are currently under-paid, money is not everything. Do what you love to do. If you love money, go for it. If you love flying, go for it. If you're lucky, you can have both.

It took me 21 years from the private pilot to major airline job. That is with years of instructing, corporate, and 9 at a regional. Most jobs paid poorly. Would I do it again? YES. Hell, yes. I loved every minute of it. I love flying. If I wasn't flying a 777 for an airline, I would be flying a bush plane in Alaska or banner towing in Florida. I don't care. I'm a pilot and I fly.

Take in what everyone is saying here, but remember where they are when they say it. Some of what they say is true, but there are lots of worse careers and jobs out there. Good luck with what you decide.