CMV: If you earn your way out of being broke, it's not "normal" to say you can't afford things after you've already done something as rough as leaving the lower class

I grew up lower class, with 3 siblings and an alcoholic father. After spending 8 years in the military, moving up the ranks, earning a bachelors degree, and landing a high paying job, I still cannot stomach the idea of spending money like my friends do.<br><br>I go to the bar with some old friends that are also in similar positions, and they order rounds for the table, buy expensive drinks, wear expensive clothes, go to expensive restaurants, etc. I wear some nice clothes that I've had for years, usually order tap beers, and I might buy a round for a few people, but that's it.<br><br>Yesterday I went to go visit my buddy from back in the day who I've known since childhood, and he bought me a few rounds, then I bought him a few rounds, and he invited me to grab dinner and I said sure. As we were eating, he mentioned that he had to get a new engine in his car and that it cost him $8000-something, but that he was also going to Miami for his birthday coming up. I told him that I probably would've sold my car and bought a new one for that price, and he laughed. He's making good money and still lives at home to save money.<br><br>I get that we all have different comfort levels when it comes to spending money, but I think it's very reasonable to not be considered cheap or "normal" after leaving a lower class background when you choose not to spend money recklessly like your friends do when they are making pretty much the same amount of money that you do. It's also reasonable to not worry about costs when you can afford to cover it without breaking the bank and want to show your appreciation for someone or celebrate.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>Edit to add: I don't call them stupid or judge them in any way, I call myself stupid when I don't order an expensive drink or when I don't want to go to a fancy restaurant.