Why a teacher?

Come on let's face it, when it comes to salary, we teachers are on the lower end of the pay scale, yet our job is one of the most important in our society. I mean, before anyone can be a doctor, an astronaut, a scientist, a president or even a teacher, they need a teacher to impart the knowledge of that field. Even back in the day when there were no universities or schools, learning took place at the feet of the elders or experienced, fathers taught their sons, mothers taught their daughters, merchants, traders, farmers, and skilled workers all took apprentices to pass on their knowledge and skills. If teachers are vital to the fabric of our existence, why aren't we given our proper dues? wouldn't it be nice if we could earn those six-figure salaries? :D But we don't, so why become a teacher? I love teaching. I love helping a person or child explore their own potential, promote and encourage their love for learning and discovery, help them to reach milestones and goals, to succeed and achieve. To see a child go from not knowing or understanding a concept to fully understanding it is a rewarding feeling. To see them develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments and development is worth more than what a six-figure salary job can give (though I'm not saying it would not be nice to have.) So in the end, I choose teaching any day :)