I have to disagree with you fred...
Flying is a a great job and most are enviable of it, but it still just remains a job.
It doesnt have to be a passion for one to appreciate how lucky one is to have such a great job, one does not need to think, sleep, breath and talk about nothing other than flying to be professional and good at ones' job.
In actual fact, I think those who claim that flying is their 'passion' tend to be one dimensional and struggle to see the broader picture. (there is more to life than just flying and planes)
It is a true professional who remains positive and knowledgable when things slow down and a large amount of time is spent on stand by.