A Story We Tell Ourselves

I’ve abandoned the naive hope that leaders might be wise, rather than wealthy fools stumbling through decisions with pockets deeper than their thoughts.

We’ve been told the same story for generations: the rich rule, and the rest serve. It’s presented as if it’s an unchangeable truth, woven into the fabric of life. This narrative comforts us with its inevitability, quietly discouraging us from imagining anything different.

But is it really the natural order? If we look closer, it’s just a story—a pattern shaped by circumstances, not a universal law. Wealth and power create undeniable advantages, yet they don’t exempt anyone from making choices or facing consequences. Privilege may smooth the path, but it doesn’t guarantee wisdom or happiness.

This doesn’t excuse harmful actions, but it reminds us to see others as human. It’s easy to resent those who seem to have it all, but that resentment keeps us stuck. Real change begins when we look past appearances and recognize that everyone, privileged or not, is shaped by their understanding—or misunderstanding—of what matters most.

The real question isn’t whether the powerful are flawed, but whether we’re creating the conditions for better leadership. Accepting the status quo without question keeps it alive. Asking better questions—about fairness, responsibility, and what truly matters—opens the door to something new.

History offers glimpses of this possibility. There have been leaders who chose service over self-interest, proving that change is possible. It’s not about tearing down those in power, but inspiring leadership built on wisdom, kindness, and connection rather than wealth or control.

Some of the most transformative figures came from privilege, yet they grew beyond it. They found fulfillment not in personal gain but in serving something larger. That’s a path anyone can choose, no matter where they begin.

The rich and powerful aren’t our enemies. They’re people, navigating life like the rest of us. Responding with anger alone won’t fix anything. Real change happens when we embody the values we wish to see—thoughtfulness, courage, and compassion.

The story of “the rich rule, the rest serve” isn’t permanent. It’s a pattern we can change if we’re willing to question it and imagine a better way forward. By living as examples of fairness and wisdom, we might just rewrite the script—not with hatred, but with hope.