What's the Problem with Authority?

I'm not going to preach on how families and households should be set up (that's a different subject altogether.)  But I will ask one question - why do people get their hackles up when it's mentioned that someone does or should have authority over them, even in a small matter?

I recently saw a FaceBook post that someone responded "my husband does not and will NEVER have authority over me!"  She was quite emphatic on the matter.  And it got me thinking.  Whether we voted or not, whether we agree with the people or not, we're ALL under someone's authority.  We're all subjected to the authority of a mayor, governor, president, and judges.  Most of us are or have been subjected to the authority of a boss and/or a parent.

I may not agree with my Commander-In-Chief, but he still is.  And he's in authority over every person in our Armed Forces, to whom I give my undying gratitude and respect.  I may have disagreed with bosses at times.  But I don't remember ever pulling out the attitude of a four-year-old and saying, "You're not the boss of me!"  (Um, yeah, they are.)

Here's the kicker, though.  Just because someone is in authority, it does not give them carte blanche to run your life and make your every decision.  Authority does not equate dictator.  Sometimes, a final decision has to be made.  And isn't it good to know who's ultimate decision something is?  I can present a proposal to a manager and discuss their counter-proposal.  We can go back and forth.  But ultimately, that person is in authority.  And ultimately, that person is accountable.

A good person in authority will consult with and take into account the voices and opinions of others.  They won't make dictatorial decisions and rule with a heavy hand.  Instead, they'll be a servant leader, putting other people's and the organization's (i.e. family, company, or country) needs and well-being ahead of their own.  And if that's the case, I'd rather NOT be in authority.  As long as I am treated with respect, valued, and appreciated, I am okay to acquiesce control to another in some circumstances.  And I know that I'll always (respectfully) speak my piece to the person in charge.  But I also know, my butt's not the one on the line!

I have authority in my own life, don't misunderstand.  I have authority over my son.  But guess what?  I put his needs (not his every whim, however) ahead of my own.  And I hope and pray he'll appreciate the sacrifice and effort I put into him.  Yes, I've got authority.  And I'm under authority.  And I don't always agree.  But I will not rage against the very term "authority."  It's not a four-letter word.