Back in the 1980s, jet Captains were happy to join CX as F/Os, and they often had a pay rise over their previous job as well. Cathay was an old colonial club and membership was very selective, once you were accepted you enjoyed the full expat lifestyle until you retired well cashed up. It was THE top airline job in the world, the equivalent of FEDEX today.

....and that succinctly explains just how far we've fallen. Good memories, but a sad outcome.