As an educator I also dislike the term "play" when talking about music. We play at recess, we work at music.
Every time a gig is done for free or little pay another professional is being shorted. As professionals we all deserve compensation.
I understand what you are trying to say, that musicians have a great situation where they can make a living doing something they love. My father was a police man, he was honored to protect and serve and retired a well respected member of the community. He was praised on one day and spit on by a drunk the next. He had a long career of 25 years, but I dont think the mortgage company ever said "since you do what you love, forget about this months payment. Its on us"
I often advise young people to try and do for a career what you would do for free. But the reality is living costs money, and the music business should be no less honorable or viable than any other career. My 2 cents, i gotta go grocery shopping
