Hello mate, I can only sympathise with your predicament.
I remember those words back in 2004, when the CPL examiner said those great words to me, 'I am pleased to tell you, you have passed'. Its a great feeling and a stepping stone in your flying career. You should be very proud of it. It takes a lot of determination, dedication and commitment.
While a lot of guys, I knew went on to fly jets, I went into the instructing world like yourself. I spent around 1000 hours teaching. Instructing was one of the finest jobs I have ever had. It was great fun and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Believe it or not, but it gives you some unique skills which you WILL bring to your airline career.
As much fun as instructing is, as you say you have to make sacrifices. Sadly the skill you bring to industry which is a unique one I might add, does not bring an income which sustains a balance sheet to break even a lot of the time. This is one thing I accepted when I took the job, so I could not complain, however there becomes a point where a decision has to be made.
I too was a modular student, and in the back of your mind is the modular/integrated debate. It was for me too. However, knowing what I know now, it is kind of irrelevant.
With all due respect sir, you are 28, and to be honest, still have a number of years on your side. I remember getting to your age and having all these thoughts. I started flying when I was 20, and have wanted to be a pilot since I was 4. I got my first FI job at 30, and my first airline job at 32. I know its tough, but stick with if you can. It may sound silly, but if you have to drive and determination life will find a way. Obviously I do not know your personal circumstances, but I remember having all the same feelings and things worked out in the end.
One of the issues right now is the way the recruiting process seems to be. I am sure you have read these forums, with the debates of P2F and all that.
Who knows what will happen in 10 years time, no one can really predict that. On a positive note, and something that gave me some satisfaction, was seeing guys who I have worked with as cabin crew after nearly 3 years get their break as pilots. So yes it does work. Getting into a company and getting to know the right people certainly does help. But of course it takes time to gain that respect within a company to be considered. Again its all about sacrifices and timing.
After reading your post, I really wish you all the best. I have said it many times on these forums in response to peoples questions, but if you are like me and love aviation the whole experience good and bad, its all worth it when you get what you aspire too.
Take care.