Most of us grow up assuming that anything legal must be right, and anything illegal must be wrong. But there’s a deeper conversation waiting to be had, especially with our children: one that explores the vital distinction between what is legal (man-made rules enforced by governments or corporations) and what is lawful (natural principles rooted in truth, honour, and universal rights).
This isn’t just semantics. It shapes how we live, the choices we make, and the freedoms we unknowingly surrender or reclaim.
What’s the Difference?
Legal systems are built on statutes and acts created by governments. These rules change across borders and timelines and are often enforced with little understanding of how they came to be. Lawful, by contrast, refers to natural or common law - the kind of law that says "do no harm," "honour your word," and "take responsibility for your actions." It’s simple, intuitive, and timeless.
The issue arises when something is legal but not necessarily lawful. Many statutory rules override or obscure our natural rights… especially when we don’t know they exist.
Teaching Children the Truth
So why don’t schools teach any of this?
Perhaps because informed, sovereign individuals are much harder to control. But that’s exactly why we must begin these conversations at home and in alternative learning spaces.
A curriculum for children aged 10+ could include:
- The history of law and governance (from natural law to statutes)
- Language literacy (words like “person,” “consent,” and “contract”)
- Real-life examples of lawful vs legal decisions
- Critical thinking, logic, and emotional discernment
- Roleplay, storytelling, and mock courts to explore responsibility and honour
When taught in empowering, age-appropriate ways, these topics don’t need to be scary. Children naturally know when something feels fair or unjust. We’re simply giving them the vocabulary and context to trust their inner knowing.
Raising Creators, Not Consumers
We live in a world that nudges us to consume: information, products, opinions. But young people are being called to create: businesses, art, communities, solutions.
When we say, “You either consume or create,” we’re really saying: Are you waiting to be told what to do? Or are you stepping into your own power to shape the world around you?
Signs of a sovereign teenager might include:
- Questioning rules instead of blindly obeying them
- Wanting to earn their own money or create something of value
- Showing interest in ethics, community, and truth
- Thinking critically about media, government, and education
Preparing for a Lawful Future
Teens don’t need to wait until they’re adults to begin living with sovereignty. A 15-year-old can:
- Learn about private business structures
- Understand how contracts and consent work
- Find a skill they love and offer it to their community
- Explore alternative economic systems like barter, gifting, or energy exchange
- Practice honorable agreements in everyday life—starting with family and friends
Ultimately, sovereignty isn’t about rebellion. It’s about remembering who we are—as responsible, creative, and lawful beings capable of shaping a future that reflects truth, not just policy.
This is the kind of education that changes lives. And it’s one that our children deserve.
Enjoy!
Teresa
Neville Mladen is the Australian guest speaker on ‘All Learning Reimagined’ this week and is passionate about teaching adults and teenagers about law. If you are interested in finding out more you can contact him or check out his website.
Email: neville3688@gmail.com
Website https://treasontoday.com
Phone +61 487 183 041
