The struggle is real...is it worth it?

As I sit here contemplating my future, I look at where I am right now and can only hope that my struggle to successfully complete my MSN degree is worth the time, effort, and money.  I work full-time.  My endeavor to complete school has been solely my desire.  I am happy doing what I do...where I do it.  No real incentive to increase my education except that's just me.  I enjoy challenging myself.  The government does not require it; my employer does not require it; simply something I felt like I wanted to accomplish, based on an uncertain future.  A wife, mother, grandmother, and full-time nurse; I sit here and I can honestly say that the struggle to get through school is definitely real.  Only time will tell if it is really worth it.  Is it true that higher education improves patient care?  Do nurses who have completed higher degrees find that it has made a difference?  Are there nurses who are considering advancing, but are holding back?  What are your reasons for waiting?