Quick feedback, there are a couple of paragraphs duplicated in your post.
Besides that, I agree wholeheartedly. I've been programming for nearly 15 years (wow that makes me sound old) and know that I have excellent job security. I've worked remotely for the last 6 years, you can't really say that about many higher salary jobs.
Before I started programming I had a pretty big mental block, but I applied myself and became proficient quickly. I really believe anyone else can do the same!