[Gallagher]

Yes. You are being pessimistic. And honestly, the way you talk, I don't think you're actually in any circles of artists that earn money (primary or secondary source) with their crafts. I can't even wrap my head around how someone could possibly worry that programs or theft are taking over. They only seem more common because this day and age has more artists popping up than ever before. The market for character art and adoptables especially is absolutely flourishing these days. I have friends who will make entire sets of adoptable characters, selling them for real money mind, and half or more of them will be sold overnight.

Also, as far as Suze's point goes... It gets said a lot but if you have a true, honest passion for something, you will find a way to make it happen. It's personal choice if you put other things first.