I don’t fault top 20 witnesses for living off steem earnings, since I’d kind of like them to be at it full time

Yep, and even a lot of them have other projects to cover it. I couldn't ever think of living off Steem unless I could cover my needs myself at what I consider the bottom. I don't see that happening for a good long while :)

Resentment comes when one is awakened from a lovely dream unceremoniously.

Never get too comfortable.