I'm not Joining

I used to think that when my friends are doing something, I need to join them. Otherwise, I'll look pathetic.

I think this mindset was inherited from my Mom. We were not coming from a super rich family, and my Mom had an ego that his child (which is me) had to always stand up on the same level as other child. So, when other child bought a candy, my Mom would give me a money to buy it too. She always said, "I don't want you to look pathetic in front of your friends".

Thanks, Mom, that was a good thinking. However, I don't think I still need that mindset for now. Like last week when me and my friends were watching a movie together, I'm not the typical guy who buy snack in theater, but since I didn't want to look pathetic, I did buy it. Later on, I regreted it. I should've done something just for the sake to impress others. Who cares if I look pathetic in front of them?

Now I think, and believe, that it's really okay to not join on something if you're not really into that! I think everyone has a right to stand on their own beliefs. Respect is due for that.