dear Kolja,
I was once faced with the same dilemma. I chose to learn to fly at age 26 and now I'm really enjoying my job in a regional airline and making good money. The fact that it takes years to train is GOOD. The industry can only see better times in the next few years, if you go back to read wannabe pprune threads before sep. 11, you'll read from pilots encouraging wanabes to start training now because "...this is the best time to get into the game...".
In retrospect it's all very clear. When you're faced with a desicion, the future is hazy. Just think positive, there's always something good in every situation.
Good luck.