No worries Goat Whisperer, I guess we have a different approach. I don't think they will come crawling back as major airlines have no shortage of people applying to them unlike the regionals. This could leave bunghole empty handed and unable to progress his/her career. Having received a rejection from a major once before I totally understand the feeling. I think its easier to play the game sometimes to have a lower stress level and achieve what you are after. Before you know it, it will be a distant memory.
A bit like security screening, we will never change it so just go along with it and save your sweat for bigger fish. Anyway thats just my take. Best of luck bunghole.