One of the better posts in recent memory, WRX. Thanks for sharing. People coming here for advice are looking for level headed, well-written posts like yours to guide them in making a decision, and there is no crime in sharing what you like and do not like about the life as long as you are sincere and willing to write coherently about it. Most people here love aviation whatever stage they are presently in, and they find that it adds meaning to their lives.
I think the key to getting something of value out of aviation lies in tailoring it to your individual need. It is not practical to expect a standard path to work out for you like it once did. You have to use your head and get into corporate, Part 135, or one of the many other forms of flying. You have to be flexible and keep up on what there is to be had out there. APC is very useful for that purpose.