The dying words of Shepherd Book in the movie Serenity don't immediately lend their meaning to the reader when taken out of context. These words, though, are important even in the real world. Let me explain how, briefly.
If you don't stand for something (i.e. believe something), then you're wholly suspect to falling for whatever comes your way, and you're likely to be easily swayed - possibly even back and forth between two conflicting opinions, if two or more people are involved. You would basically become a "yes man". If you look that up anywhere, you'll know right away it's not a very flattering term.
Here's an example. If someone approaches you on a topic you don't know a thing about, you're likely to believe what they say - unless you believe the person isn't trustworthy. If the person is lying, then this belief that they're not trustworthy has saved you from being taken in. Likewise, if you believe they're trustworthy, you're likely to believe them. However... If you don't know if the person is trustworthy, and you don't believe anything at all, they can pull you whatever way they wish - if you don't choose to disbelieve, then you believe them. Taking a neutral stance is a belief in itself.
As the saying goes: "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything."
If you stand for something, you'll be far more focused and effective in everything you do. You'll know much faster how to make your decisions, and people won't sway you from your beliefs nearly as easily. It doesn't matter if you share my viewpoints or beliefs - stand for something, and you'll be much better off.
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