job satisfaction?

I am pursuing nursing with the intent of becoming a CNM. I have decided to go the route where I first get a BSN through an accelerated program, work a few years and gain experience, and go on to get a Master's.

I can't help but be discouraged by the countless posts about how nurses are disrespected by staff, patients, families of patients, the outside world who doesn't have a clue what nursing is all about, etc; how nurses get swallowed in politics; go unappreciated; etc, etc....

I know how naive this will sound, but please tell me midwifery isn't like this. I know everywhere you go, no matter what you do, you'll encounter negative people and bad situations. But honestly, nursing discontent seems so widespread and only seems to be worsening, and I can think of other professions where this just isn't such a big issue.

If someone could give me some perspective, I'd GREATLY appreciate it. I'd be interested to know - were you an RN before becoming a midwife? How do those compare? Do you feel more satisfied with the job, or do you still encounter many of those obstacles plenty of nurses face? What makes it worth it for you?

thanks.