The different takes on this whole experience idea are as varied as the number of different posters. If there is no consensus here, there won't be in the real world either.

There is a therapeutic value to setting up the "ideal scene" and thinking about it. But we must think in terms of reality. No one knows where the industry is going long term. My belief is that it isn't going to get much better, but I hope I am wrong.

Those who have already made it are likely going to be alright in the long term. Those with around 2,000 hours and some turbine time (right now) will likely be given a second chance at this game in about 3-4 years. Once they are all used up, the general rule is going to be less and less qualified pilots available. Flying is just too damned expensive and just doesn't pay off nearly quickly enough for most people.

Those who just HAVE TO FLY!!! and so will not do anything else will still follow through the ranks, but those who do it for money and QOL will find happiness in another route.

More and more airline pilots are steering their kids away from this profession.

But, as the saying goes, the gold lies at the bottom of a barrel of crap. Those who do endure will likely be satisfied in the end. From what I hear, it does/can get better. Its the rat race to the top that makes it so unfulfilling. My guess is the UPS guys, wide-body captains, SWA guys, are all happy with their career choices.

Just my $.02.