Hmmm, you start out at $1,200 a month, go years without a contract, work your butt off, have your rest area removed, do many things that passengers never see, listen to complaints about things you have no control over, everyone wants first class service on $400 international fares and are expected to be happy and full of energy the whole flight. Even given these conditions, my experience on AA (160,000 miles in the last 6 months) has been outstanding. The level of professionalism is very good. Improve the working conditions and you'll see better CS as is the case with all fields.

And yes, they are there for your safety and I for one appreciate this service more than food and beverage.