Gary,
I have been in the same circumstances as you around ten years ago. From what I can catch from surfing around here, you will do well and have much more satisfaction in doing it. My Grandfather told me many years ago (before he passed) that everyone is responsible for their own destiny. I took him on his word, and am not looking back. Sometimes it takes more time than I wish, but in the end there is no one I need to answer to but my customers. With the right kind of attitude one can't fail. My best wishes go out to you, and I can only hope the best is yet to come for you.