Connections to Big Question from Henry IV Part 1

The biggest message sticking out to me in Henry IV is following the path that suits an individual and not conforming to multiple people's viewpoints. Prince Hal associates with Falstaff and also tries to fulfill his duties prior to becoming King; this creates a social rift between the upper class and his current comrades and he is left in a pickle. Hal is facing an identity-vs- role confusion within his own life and it is like he is trying to fill three pairs of shoes with only two feet; he can make it seem like they all fit but when he tries to walk two pairs will be left behind. As for Falstaff, we spoke alot in class about how he is one of the most honest characters in this play which oftentimes causes him immense problems. In connection to my question What is the meaning of life? I feel that Falstaff is doing his honest best to be himself but as with all things, modesty is a necessity to keep a stable balance. Falstaff often overindulges himself and speaks his mind far too often in inappropriate situations; this causes him to eventually be banished from the kingdom when he wasn't technically doing anything wrong. So my main point here would be to find a balance in what you say and what you choose to withhold. The individuals who can speak their mind when necessary and hold their tongues when necessary seem to be the happiest and have the most self control, in my opinion. Falstaff's lack of self control is one of his major character flaws to me. The pub crawlers in general lead lives that are far from "socially acceptable" and they accept the consequences for their actions accordingly, or at least have to deal with the consequences in one way or another.Individuals or groups who choose to stray from societal norms are often seen as outcasts, but if that fulfills their meaning of a life worth living then in my mind they should be able to live as they please as long as what they are doing isn't hurting anyone else.