Terry, I love your description of freight--"it doesn't get airsick..keeps it mouth shut..."
I've been asked, "what's the scariest moment you ever had flying"
My response: "my first paycheck."
Like it or lump it, there is "time-building" involved, and these jobs don't always pay that great. Plenty of people out there who are willing to work for very little to fly--part time or full time.
If you are not willing to give up your current career--the part-time option may take a little longer, but may be a better option until you can find something suitable.
On the flip side, I have an upper office with a view, for the most part I'm my own boss in the cockpit (unless flying with a PIC in two pilot ops), and it sure beats a cublical.
I wouldn't trade my career for any other. We spend a very large chunk of our lives in our jobs. It is a part of how we define ourselves. Whether we like it or not, it is bound to come home with us, as well. You need to enjoy what you do. Of course, that it is bound to come home with us also means it is bound to affect family life. Many pilots (not all, of course) consider that a huge drawback--strain on family. They may travel frequently, move frequently, and work odd hours. Holidays, weekends, and evenings are not uncommon, and often expected.
Fractionals are growing--creating a pilot demand. The airline industry often changes with the economy. We are also in the middle of a generation gap of population. Pilots retiring, but the next generation is not yet ready to fill that gap. This is probably why you hear these conflicting reports.
There is a wide array of types of aviation jobs out there. I wish I would have known more about them before college. There again, the part time option as well as Terry's advice about hanging out at the airport and talking with people would be very helpful. Don't be shy about calling companies for "information interviews." Most people are happy to talk about their jobs and their business. Remember to ask them what they consider the drawbacks to be as well as the perks. Check out job listings on the internet, many are free, or inexpensive. Even if you are not yet ready to pursue a job, it will give you an idea of what all is out there, and what the qualifications are. For example, I think being a game warden would be a great job! But the qualification of being a pilot is secondary to other qualifications. Had I known that, I would have taken appropriate courses. Other jobs prefer rotorcraft experience with minimal fixed wing experience.
Good luck to you!