Rules. Oh, why so many rules everywhere?

I can't help myself. Here's a pile of books!

It's probably safe to say nobody enjoys rules. We typically find them restrictive, boxing us in, and closing away options. After all, rules set limits, define borders, and are enforced. But, as I've grown and matured, I've learned that without rules we have chaos. So, my attitude about rules have changed a lot. It's like the old example of a train. Put it on tracks and it will run well, but let it go off into a field and it won't run at all. Certainly there are bad rules and good rules, so that example can only go so far, but it's not instantly bad that rules are in place.

We have rules for everything. Eating, sleeping, working, playing, talking, driving, walking, singing, and the list goes ever on. Some rules are obvious: don't walk down the middle of a busy street. Others aren't: "i" before "e" except after "c." The way I think about it is rules show us where the free to play zones are. In writing, there are pretty solid rules about grammar and so on. But, in imagination there's no limit. So, when doing imaginative writing, I get to merge the two into something new. That is some of the best fun to be had anywhere.

My point is that rules are there for good reasons. But, don't be afraid to challenge rules. If reasoning doesn't hold up, then the rules should change. If it does, then abide by them. Actually, challenging rules is the basis for making things better. It's part of the scientific method, critical analysis, structured thinking, and kids do it from the moment they begin talking. "Why?" It's a good question, and don't turn it aside lightly. But, also be prepared to back up what you believe.

- M