Society is made up of systems. We sanction governments, companies, and schools, so that we can operate in a shared space. We create milestones – like having children, getting promoted, or owning a home – that become the maps by which we organize and live our lives.  Most systems come with good intentions. Many of our systems allow us to find purpose and contribute to the world. But there are a lot of people who don’t fit within a system. They can’t be at an office from 9 to 5. They don’t thrive within the hierarchy of a company. They can’t stay curious and engaged in school. Michaell Magrutsche argues that the problem isn’t us; we know that in each person there are gifts, curiosities, intuitions, and desires, all of which can achieve infinite potential. The problem is that we are organic beings, stuck in – and limited by – a system that is static.  If we aren’t careful, systems dictate how we live and who we become. But we don’t have to do away with systems. We don’t necessarily have to reinvent them either. Instead, Michaell suggests that we recognize ourselves not as stewards of systems, but as conscious beings. Only then can we unburden ourselves from the limitations of these systems. Only then can we reach a higher truth, one that honors our humanity and allows us to share ourselves authentically. Michaell Magrutsche is a multimedia artist, mentor, and writer. Find Michaell, his art, and his writing at .