But yes, iab, I share your frustration with parables, too. Just because the first mason said “earning my living” doesn’t mean he isn’t “Earning my living so that my family may have food and shelter they need to survive.” It’s dangerous to assume that only those who voice it, are the ones who can see the forest through the trees. Some people just want to get their work done because that’s what they prefer to do.
To the OP, there’s some really good insight and advice here. We’ve all been there before, and it sounds like a change of scenery would do you well. It could be a part-time hobby, it could be a cross-country move. But, it’s up to you to determine. Best of luck.