Lax...You are correct. We pilots are just a small piece of the pie and we like to think we are an important part of the operation but times have changed. Pilots are the poor sods who cant keep up with the times and changes. I'm not talking about operational changes, but award conditions, including days off,leave,wages..etc..I still have my professional pride but we can and are being replaced more often now. Aircraft ARE easier to fly and more reliable than ever before. Gone are the days of the one job career. CAL are not devastated that you leave after 12 - 18 months. I think it suits their needs better that you leave rather than you hanging around pestering them about an upgrade. It really has become a case of look after ones self as best you can. I have been one to despise this concept and have beeen shafted more than once. I will try to look after me first from now on and in the process, if I can look after others its a bonus. THE GOOD OL' DAYS ARE OVER... and i'm sad about it too.