Coming from STOL turboprop ops to the wide body Airbus fleet myself, I feel some of what you are expressing. I think often of the times whe people were happy to see you because their community would struggle to cope without you flying in mail, medication, produce etc. We were respected and looked after by our clients even if the salary was relatively abysmal.
However.. money doesnt buy happiness but I will settle for being sad in luxury!
For your consideration: The Middle-eastern company I work for now, which we apparently cannot name under pain of death
, is soon supposedly starting a "part time" program for capts who are over 50 and have served over 3 years online.
Its one month on-one month off. You'll only get paid for the month you work but thats no biggy if all your ducks are in a row. That should give you enough time per year to accomplish whatever it is that will give you fulfillment.
Im not eligible for it myself as im too young and too much of an FO.. im sure some of the more savant personalities will have enough to say on the matter if probed..
good luck