Woody,
Perhaps, therein lies the problem. Think about doing something for your own enjoyment, and not because you think you should get something for it. Loving this country and expecting to get something for it, is not what love is. It is the farthest thing from it. You are trying to make a business deal out of it. Doing something and expecting something in return, in doing so, you are only setting yourself up for being frustrated. And then the sadness and anger will ultimately follow.
Living your life for eternal conflict is a difficult way to go. It is entirely your choice in the matter, so don't be blaming others for how you choose to make a life for yourself.