Can we agree that everyone has a role? The individual has a role, just as the institution. The rigid-minded has a role, just as the more creative. The evil doer has a role, just as the doer of good. Those who are generous have a role, just as those who are in need. But there’s a problem.
When roles are not accomplished or role boundaries are over reached, the entire system is sent into disarray. Individuals feel imposed upon by institutions, the rigid-minded restrict the creative beyond measure, evil overruns good, and the generous never find those in need. It doesn’t have to be that way.
Institutions can empower and encourage individuals, the rigid can ground and guide the creative, evil can be put in check by the doers of good, and everyone can have what they need.
How? Every single person in every position must be clear about who they are serving. They must be aware of the person or people most likely to be affected by their choices and least likely to have the ability to have a say. In that way, the perspective will broaden beyond the walls we create for ourselves, each of us will be encouraged to do what we can (and not more), and the relational dynamic on all fronts will change.