This is actually reasonable. You didn't know what work is needed to make a game, but your reason to learn a programming language because you couldn't get help is absolutely not dumb in my opinion.
Actually I did know the amount and kind of work it required, as I have being working on game projects before (I'm sound designer, music composer and game designer).
It's not really dumb yes, but a bit sad when you think about it.
Ok, it makes it juuuust a little bit dumb, I give you that! :D (just joking). I like that you was determined to do it, even if it meant to go through all of this.
Once Miyamoto said (I have a book with interviews of Game Designers) that a Game Designer should understand programmers, in order to be efficient. Or something with those lines. So don't think it is sad, make it a positive power you would have missed, if that would not happen. Sorry if I'm a bit too optimistic in my views.
You're right, but it wasn't how I took it a the time.
The underlying message I receive was that if you don't pay enough or you don't make people dream Steve jobs style, you won't get anyone to work with you.
I'm lucky, I do have the drive and I can take the time to learn news things and I get to meet some wonderful people along the way. But that's just me being lucky.
Sorry for venting, but I do think curiosity should be on both side.