We know what works. Freedom Works. We know what's right. Freedom

Opening Scene

The room is bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, casting long shadows across the floor. Outside, the city begins to slow down, the hum of the day fading into the quiet of evening. Jack sits at the table, his hands folded thoughtfully in front of him, his gaze distant as though he’s reflecting on something deeper. Jeeny stands by the window, looking out at the view below, her arms crossed as she absorbs the scene. The atmosphere is still, yet charged with the sense that a conversation is about to unfold.

Host: After a few moments, Jeeny turns from the window, her voice quiet but steady, as though the words she’s about to share have been on her mind for a while.

Jeeny: “You know, I was thinking about something George H. W. Bush said: ‘We know what works. Freedom works. We know what’s right. Freedom is right.’ It really made me think — why do we sometimes overcomplicate things when the fundamental truths are so clear? In many ways, freedom is at the core of so many solutions, yet it often feels like it gets lost in the noise of everything else. Why is it so hard to just embrace freedom as a guiding principle?”

Jack: “That’s such a powerful statement. I think we tend to get caught up in the complexities of life, in all the details and nuances, and forget that some of the most basic truths are the most important. Freedom, in its purest sense, doesn’t need to be overthought. It’s simple — it’s the ability to choose, to express, to live without being constrained by unnecessary restrictions.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And maybe the reason we don’t always lean into it is because freedom, by nature, requires responsibility. It’s easy to want freedom, but it’s a lot harder to accept the responsibility that comes with it. The idea of making choices, of taking ownership of our actions, can feel overwhelming for some people. But when we understand that freedom isn’t just about doing what we want, but about having the power to make choices that align with what’s right, it becomes so much clearer.”

Jack: “That’s true. Freedom isn’t about chaos or a lack of order; it’s about having the space to grow, to explore, and to live authentically. The beauty of freedom is that it allows us to define what’s right for ourselves. But to do that, we have to be willing to take responsibility for the impact of our actions on others, to make choices that contribute to a better world.”

Host: The room grows quieter, as though their conversation has uncovered something deeper. Jack leans forward, his fingers lightly tapping the table, while Jeeny sits down across from him, clearly reflecting on the weight of Bush’s words.

Jeeny: “It’s interesting, though, because I think some people view freedom as a privilege — something that only a few get to fully enjoy. But when you look at it in a broader sense, freedom is a right for everyone. It’s not about being given permission to live freely; it’s about recognizing that everyone has the inherent right to make their own choices, to express themselves, and to shape their own destiny.”

Jack: “Right. And freedom isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about empowerment — giving people the opportunity to chart their own course, without unnecessary barriers. When we embrace freedom as a right, we open up the possibility for everyone to flourish, regardless of their background, their beliefs, or their circumstances. It’s about giving people the tools they need to succeed, and then stepping back and allowing them to do so.”

Jeeny: “That’s the key, isn’t it? It’s not about imposing freedom, it’s about allowing people to make their own decisions, to live their lives according to their own values. But with that, there also comes a recognition of how our actions impact others. Freedom isn’t just about doing what we want without regard for others; it’s about respecting the rights of others as well.”

Jack: “Exactly. It’s the balance between individual freedom and collective responsibility. Freedom works when we use it wisely, when we respect the rights of others, and when we make decisions that reflect the greater good, not just our own self-interest.”

Host: The air in the room feels lighter now, as though the weight of Bush’s words has brought clarity to the conversation. The world outside continues at its usual pace, but inside, Jack and Jeeny share a quiet realization that freedom is not just a concept, but a fundamental principle that works — when we embrace it fully, with both the empowerment and the responsibility it requires.

Jeeny: “So, maybe it’s not about overcomplicating things. We know what works — freedom. But it’s up to us to make it meaningful, to use it in a way that fosters growth, respect, and connection.”

Jack: “Exactly. And when we do that, we create the space for everyone to thrive. Freedom is the foundation of everything — personal, social, and collective progress. When we live it, when we embrace it fully, we unlock all the potential for real change.”

Host: The conversation wraps up with a sense of quiet understanding, a realization that freedom is not just a lofty idea but a practical, powerful force for change, when used responsibly. The world outside continues its rhythm, but inside, Jack and Jeeny are left with the simple but profound truth: freedom, in its most authentic form, is both a right and a responsibility. It’s the key to growth, empowerment, and the possibility of a better future for all.