I was in sixth grade, when I first heard this statement. I was so excited because I had found a profession that combined my love of animals, Earth and water. Previously, I had wanted to be a veterinarian. However, due to my severe allergies and asthma at the time, it didn't seem like a real possibility. Now, I had my eyes (and heart) set on becoming a marine biologist. I would get to travel, swim in the oceans and help the marine life of our world. I was so excited, and then crushed as this idea was rejected by someone I looked to for approval. It created a self-limiting belief that has been carried around ever since.
I bring this up because I have heard this comment mentioned to a boy about the same age I was when I heard this same statement. He wanted to be a math teacher. I also heard it about another dear person to me, whom also wants to be a teacher. "You can't make money doing that!" It crushes them, causes them to withdraw and continue looking for the thing that will gain approval by these people, even if it takes away their personal happiness.
First off, teachers are in much need. I agree that they do not make much, and they should be paid better. I dare anyone to go into a classroom to educate students on any topic for what they get paid and then come out and tell me if they are over paid babysitters. The thing with these people that are interested in teaching, is that they have a passion for it. That is exactly what you need in a teacher; some one who will guide, open minds, and find creative ways to bring understanding of material to all students and their various learning styles. If they are passionate about it, they can do this even though they are not compensated appropriately.
I really bring this up to hopefully bring awareness to what you say to others. It may seem harmless or like good advice to you, but it may truly be harming the person who was so excited to share their dreams with you. Your words are so much bigger than you know. The power to create and to destroy are in your words and thoughts. I encourage you to listen to what you say to others. If you feel yourself about to react in such a manner, stop yourself, and find a way to be in support of them. This is their life, their dream and their passion. Be thankful they find you worthy enough to share it with.
May we all find the support, love, dreams and passion to enhance the joy in our lives. Money helps you get by in this world, but it isn't the only part of living in this world.