For those of us fortunate enough to have been born outside the “corn maze”—and who may never have even stepped inside—it can be easy to judge, to dismiss, or simply to ignore. But imagine, just for a moment, being born in the middle of that maze, where all you’ve ever known is corn.

Even if someone hands you a map or tools to find your way out, emerging from the maze is only the first step. Once outside, you’re suddenly in an unfamiliar world, unsure of how to behave, what’s expected, or how to succeed. The rules are different. The landscape is foreign. And it’s scary.

Like all living beings, when we’re afraid, we react. We survive. And often, we retreat to what feels familiar—our comfort zone.

If we want real, lasting opportunity to take root, we must offer more than just tools. We need to help people connect the dots, navigate new terrain, and stand at the same starting line as those who were born beyond the maze.

Only then can we fairly expect success. Only then can we measure progress. And only then can we all share in the rewards of their journey.