I consider myself very blessed because I am one of the "lucky" ones flying for a very stable major carrier. With that being said, this job is just that - it is a job. It is neither a good thing nor a bad thing, it just is.

True, pilots tend to be more passionate about their work than many other people do in their respective professions. However, the "new car smell" does go away sooner than later. Passion about your work is certainly important, but it should not trump your ability to support your family - and by that I mean financially and in terms of quality of life.

Pursue a career, not an idol.