Beautifully said Wal', and perhaps my post should have been in one of the cadet threads. I know exactly where you're coming from, but even so I couldn't fine the "tounge in cheek" icon.
As for being a late starter, I'm certainly hearing ya'. Didn't take my first lesson till 27, and like you said, back then if you didn't have significant experience by 25, then forget a career in the airlines. Fortunately things have changed in that respect, and even Krusty is now earning a survivable wage after doing his decade in GA, and almost as long again as a low paid F/O! He still doesn't feel it's enough for all the years of deprivation though, and frequently bitches about it.
So prophead123, by all means go for it, but do it for the pure love of it. If you are motivated by the long lost notions of the profession (as ranted by Krusty) you may be disapointed.
Best of luck.
