“Don't ever take a fence down until you know why it was put up.”

Simplified Meaning:

Before you decide to remove a barrier or set rule in your life, you need to understand the reason behind it first. Imagine there is a fence around a playground. At first glance, it might seem unnecessary and restrictive. But if you look into its purpose, you might find that it was built to keep children safe from a nearby busy road. If someone took it down without realizing why it was there, kids could be in danger. The idea can apply to rules or traditions in society or even in families. For example, your parents might set a curfew for you, which feels limiting. However, if you ask them why, they might explain it's to ensure you get enough rest for school or to keep you safe. This advice encourages cautious decision-making by understanding the purpose behind actions and structures before changing or removing them. When faced with a rule or barrier you want to challenge, first find out its reasoning. This helps prevent unintended problems and shows respect for those who established it. By doing so, you make more informed and thoughtful decisions.