My main point is there are metrics other than money out/money in to consider!
Exactly! I have a small fortune invested in guitars, bases, computer, software, and hardware. My monetary return on this investment is very little but I have gained a lot more. I have many Internet friends, a couple I have met in person, plus I have increased my knowledge base by listening to these friends as well as an appreciation for many genres of music.
Hopefully I have helped a few along the way.
Plus I have had a ton of fun using this equipment playing covers, composing and recording music. It also got me interested into buying and learning how to play a new instrument, my wind controller.
So yes money ain't everything!