Don't ever feel trapped or think you are a slave to the salary! Contract piloting is some of the best there is. You don't have to worry about asking for vacation, missing important dates, or anything like that. The pay may not be the same from month to month, but at least you rule your schedule. I will take a slight cut in pay to be with my family and friends during the important times.
Also, most employers will be happy to make you contract if it cuts down on the overhead cost of benefits. They still have to treat you like an employee in the eyes of the FAA, but you don't deal with the office politics and having trips crammed down your throat on the day your kid's birthday.
Just my opinion, but you can find far better benefits on your own nowadays. Most employers are taking the easy road and cutting their benefits to the bare bone.