In Chapter 6, Leon hypocritically praises Bailey for being "true to himself." Yet, when Jerry exhibits the same quality, Leon does everything he can to crush Jerry's spirit. It's important to note that Jerry's decision to abstain from the chocolate sale is not based on any principle concerning the sale itself. At first, he is simply completing a task assigned by the Vigils. Extending his boycott beyond the ten-day assignment becomes a personal rebellion, one that Jerry struggles to fully understand.

Jerry's individual stance is shaped by personal circumstances, such as the recent death of his mother, the dull routine of his father's life as a pharmacist, and his fascination with a poster in his locker featuring a quote from T. S. Eliot: "Do I dare disturb the universe?" This stance has little to do with any specific objections to Leon's fundraising efforts. During a conversation with Goober, Jerry says, "It's not the Vigils, Goob. They're not in it anymore. It's me."

By the end of the book, after the sale's success and Jerry's severe injury from Janza in the boxing ring, Jerry wants to share newfound wisdom with Goubert but finds himself unable to speak. However, the reader gains insight into Jerry's thoughts. Despite authority figures promoting individualism and the hippie mantra of not being "square," Jerry comes to realize, "They don't want you to do your thing, not unless it happens to be their thing too." More importantly, he grasps the consequences of trying: "They murder you."