This story introduces the idea of structure as restraint.
It is not a history lesson and not an argument for a political position. It is a simple story that points to a warning one of the founders added to all the other unresolved concerns left over after the creation of a new type of government.

It examines how agreement, limits, and delay were deliberately built into a system meant to survive human imperfection—especially the parts of human nature that are absolutely convinced they are right.

Franklin’s remark is used here not as reassurance, but as a warning about responsibility.

What follows explores that warning through story, reflection, and inquiry… without requiring powdered wigs or a pop quiz at the end.