Yes I did choose to be a pilot, its 22 years flying this year (started at 17), I didnt make it to airlines, and went back to my previous industry.
Im putting forward the viewpoint of a non-airline employee, who has a little knowledge of aviation (a little knowledge is a dangerous thing i hear you say).
It doesnt make the point of view invalid.
The problem some on here have is that if youve not got srtipes on your shoulder then your view is irrelevant. But its precisely those without stripes on their shoulders that are the cause of your issues. So I suggest you learn to engage better.