What is the underlying message of the quote "It is easier to fight for one's principles than to live up to them"?

The quote "It is easier to fight for one's principles than to live up to them" conveys the idea that while it may be straightforward to advocate for or defend one's beliefs and values, the real challenge lies in consistently embodying those principles in everyday life. This reflects a common human experience where the act of standing up for what one believes in can feel more accessible than the continuous effort needed to incorporate those beliefs into actions and decision-making.

The emphasis is on the contrast between advocacy and practice. Advocating for principles can often be a matter of rhetoric, rallying support, and expressing ideals in a clear manner. However, integrating those principles into daily behavior requires ongoing commitment, self-discipline, and personal accountability, often in the face of temptation or challenge. This highlights the often greater difficulty involved in living authentically according to one's beliefs, rather than simply defending or promoting them to others.