Wow Henry, Profound.
I feel EXACTLY the same way. Been here 15 years and left a national carrier to join EK. As you said, the first 10 years were great and then..........
I'm an optimist but honestly can't see things getting better. Not only for EK but in the industry as a whole. Looking at leaving this year and possibly doing something completely non aviation related. Just like you I was passionate about flying and growing up was all I ever wanted to do. I now find myself in my mid 40's and want to have nothing to do with aviation at all. I too need to go find my smile and I think we are all pretty much in the same boat. The only thing that separates us is varying states of denial.
Good luck to all. I think this year is going to be make or break for a lot of us.