I've been in this game now for over 30 years but I've never had the big $$. I've seen all the changes, companies fall over, new management, reduced relative wages...I still love what I do and always reflect on the fact that I'd still prefer to fly a C-152 around a circuit than dig holes.
Despite the sims, route checks, EP's, DG's, CBT's, blah, blah , blah, being an airline pilot is still a great job, and if you have the passion I would recommend it as a career!