There is nothing wrong with finding a stable job that you enjoy.. if you can indeed find such a thing. It really depends on your location, what kind of competition you have in your area, your general skill set, and your ability to sell yourself. In most situations, its not so much your experience level or skill as it is your ability to market yourself. Physical presence, personality, portraying yourself as smart, humble, and generally likable are key in landing a decent job.
There is nothing wrong with being an employee in the service industry.. our nation thrives and survives on such people, and those experiences instill a greater understanding on the value of ones work and presence in the work world. It more of less helps give you a sense of direction of what you want to do with your life.. I've had my fair share, and its inspired my current path.
Then again, money is money. You can just as easily succeed racking up hours doing a part-time or minimum wage job, if you spend your money wisely and save.. That's just it though, most people cant.. whether for reasons they can control or other they cant.. fuel prices, insurance (medical and auto), lunch each day, tabacco products (if you partake), rent, bills, groceries, etc.. Its often hard to get ahead, let alone.. stay afloat. Its rough out there.. not for everyone, but especially people from small towns with little work to find.