That is so true.
While I have lots of friends making "big bucks", most of them have high seniority, and you always remember the success stories (i.e. my T-38 formation training wingman who is a Captain for United and makes so much money, and has made a great deal of money since 1990, that he lives in a house (his 3rd) that is literally a mansion outside of San Francisco.
But, there are also lots of stories of furloughs, broken marriages, crappy schedules, lifestyle nightmares, and untold stress.
While I am jealous that I never tried for the majors (and applaud those who do, and who earn every penny doing it) in other ways I am grateful. Very grateful.
Flying for the airlines ain't what it used to be.
Not even close.
Aviation has also changed. It used to be "fun" to fly, or to travel. Remember those days?
Flying these days is one big hassle, while being treated like a felon in the process.