Charging for GM services? Thoughts?

So, in the interest of full disclosure, I have charged for my services as a GM in the past. It's been a while since I've done that as the amount of time I spend in tabletop RPGs has declined as sharply as my stable of players. At this point, I GM almost exclusively for the same ~5 players. However, from 2007-2012, I was paid to GM 3 different campaigns (V:tM, Dark Heresy and Rogue Trader). Recently, I got into a bit of a debate with a few people on another forum regarding this specific issue. There are no plans to GM for pay in the future, so this discussion was purely academic. To say the least, the other participants found the idea of getting paid to GM appalling. I, obviously, disagree. If someone wants to pay for what they perceive to be quality GM'ing, so be it. It's their money. That did, however, get me to thinking about the concept. What are you thoughts? Are you ok with it? Would you ever consider participating (either as paid GM or paying player)?

Shawn-- This as an "academic" conversation has no place on our forums, as it's off-topic for directly Roll20-related conversation. It would be better handled on another site. Thanks.

We in the US live in an essentially free market economy... if someone is willing to pay for something, someone out there will be selling it. There's nothing inherently wrong with this. After all, there are plenty of folks out there that sell custom mini's, painting, accessories, and other nick-knacks that enhance our hobby. As a GM, I don't think I would ever *ask* for payment though. To me that's more a gaming faux pas than anything and I would probably feel embarrassed about the whole thing. That being said, I have no qualms over asking my players to bring snacks or beverages and it's not at all uncommon to treat whomever is hosting (GM or Player) as thanks for using their place. As a player, I'd have no problem chipping in for a few minis or provide a gaming mat or something, (and regularly do). But something inherently throws red flags up in my subconscious when asked for payment to play a game/pasttime. In a nutshell; to each their own, but I don't think I would ever ask or give payment to enjoy my favorite hobby with someone.