factor,
great post.
with you on that about everyone's circumstances being different. i just wanted to hear from people who have fought it all the way and whether they ended up with a flying job or not is irrelevant. I don't think not being able to fly is going to kill us (perhaps mentally ) , but as you said, "for once you have tasted flight you will walk with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been and there you will long to return."
Guys, out of topic, but what do you think is a good place to go and finish off my IR? South Africa/Canada? Australia is where i did my CPL from and it's bloody expensive. Also, not really keen on heading back downunder.
Basically need to do some remedial (out of action for 2 years) + IR + license conversion.