A value that has never cost you anything is still just a decoration.

Saying what you believe is free, which is why saying it proves so little. A value becomes real at the first moment it takes something from you: an invitation, an easier grade, somebody’s approval. Until then it has never been tested, so you honestly do not know whether it holds. That is not a flaw, it is just untested equipment.

Look for the small bill rather than the dramatic one. Most values get tested in a group chat, not on a hill. Paying a small price on purpose teaches you more than another year of agreeing with yourself.