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Rules are supposed to create consistency. They establish expectations, define boundaries, and ensure that people are held to the same standards.

Until someone becomes the exception.

Some people, because they are favoured by someone in a position of authority, seem able to get away with more than others. A behaviour that would normally result in criticism, consequences, or discipline is overlooked, excused, or quietly forgiven.

The authority figure may justify it. Perhaps they trust the person more, like them more, or believe they deserve another chance. Yet, when someone else does exactly the same thing, the response can be entirely different.

Over time, the favoured person may begin to recognise this protection. They understand, consciously or unconsciously, that the normal rules do not apply to them in quite the same way. Boundaries become flexible. Consequences become negotiable.

The real issue is not simply favouritism.

It is what happens when a relationship with authority becomes more powerful than the standards that authority is supposed to uphold.

Rules are easy to enforce when there is no personal attachment involved. Their true strength is revealed when the person breaking them is someone we are most tempted to excuse.

Sometimes, the greatest privilege is not being above the rules but knowing that someone in power is willing to bend them for you.