So I’ve been doing this thing for a few months now and I keep wondering if other people have similar experiences. Like, my job is managing the warehouse for this small company. It’s mostly older guys, super dedicated, been there forever. And they’re all really religious. Like, REALLY religious. Every morning, before the shift officially starts, they have this prayer circle. It’s totally voluntary, nobody *has* to go. But everyone does. And I mean everyone. I’m not religious at all. Never have been. My parents are pretty secular, most of my friends are too. But if I don't go, it’s like... a thing. Not that anyone says anything, but I can feel the difference in how they interact with me the rest of the day. The conversation becomes a little stiffer, a little less personal. Like I’m an outsider. So I go. I stand there, head bowed, listening to them pray for inventory counts and safe forklift operation. I don’t say the amen part or anything, I just… observe. My presence is sufficient, I think. Is that weird? Does everyone feel this constant pressure to perform in ways that don't actually align with their internal state? It's like I’m a chameleon, trying to blend in with the suburban landscape. The weirdest part is how much energy it takes. It’s only ten minutes, maybe fifteen, but by the time it’s over, I feel this subtle drain. Like a small, constant energy leak. And then I have to go about my day, making sure things are running smoothly, chatting with these same guys about their kids and grandkids, pretending I’m just one of them. The facade is maintained, operations continue as normal. But sometimes I wonder what would happen if I just… didn’t go. Would it even be worth the perceived social cost? I don't know.