I suspect that most HN readers are those who have "made it", relative to many in their respective societies. The professions that are often represented here are

I suspect that most HN readers are those who have "made it", relative to many in their respective societies. The professions that are often represented here are usually well-compensated, and there are successful entrepreneurs here, to boot. So I would expect people to be a bit more sympathetic to your anecdote.