Why do Key Influencers Gravitate Towards “Scum Bags”?

I was scrolling through Facebook this morning and came across this post…

I trust the original poster has good intentions and thank her for inspiring this article, which should not be personalized, as I do not know her or her experience, just my own.

Why do Influencers Gravitate Towards “Scumbags”?

I won’t lie; I’ve become acquainted with some interesting characters in the past two years. The variety of the people within the movement fascinates me. At Camp Arnprior, following the convoy, it hit me, a quiet, Christian homeschooling mom at the time, that we are witnessing a gathering reminiscent of what the Apostle Peter experienced. When he was called to the house of the Gentiles and saw they had the same Spirit, he proclaimed, “What prevents us from baptizing them” (Acts 10:47). So today, those with the Spirit of Freedom come from all classes and backgrounds. The Spirit has literally called us together from “the highways and the byways” (Luke 14:23). 

You don`t have to be a believer to appreciate my thought process at the time.

So, here is my response, as one who isn’t afraid to “Sit with the least of these.”

Soul Alchemy…

We all hold light and darkness. By giving the “bad” people a chance, they tend to be inspired to do better. They also reveal our inner darkness, leading to character development and growth. I called that soul alchemy.

If your light is true, you can hold it through a brief associations with darkness. We are here to learn, grow, and be transformed.

Some people are better suited to help others process their darkness and chaos. They are known as the “wounded healers,” those who can “transmute energy” or “cast out demons”.

Class vs. Integrity

I grew up lower class, surrounded by upper class; a boat mechanics` daughter in the heart of upscale Georgian Bay. I saw how much we had in common. When we mixed and mingled, I saw the magic in it, how it humbled the high and lifted the low.

The people first effected by corruption are the poor and broken. They need inspiration, help, and leadership to mobilize effectively. Is it not our sympathy towards those struggling that inspired us to act in the first place and keeps us going?

In my hometown, I’ve learned more by spending time with the “regulars,” which some would consider “scum bags,” than with those of my education level and background. They hold the knowledge of the city and the people and understand the depth of its corruption… and there’s an army of them… An Army of Them!

I encourage those organizing locally to take the time to form true relations with the natural leaders among the “common” class of your hometown. You will be happy you did!

Deciding for Yourself

True leaders, decide for themselves if someone is a “slimy scum bag.” They do not rely on the opinion of others. Hence, an association SHOULD take place. Ideally, the bulk of our time is best directed towards those of proven integrity, but let’s be sure that by “integrity,” we are not referring to class or mannerism.

Alliances

Lastly, despite any influencers basic flaws and mistakes (which we all have), the formation of alliances between influencers, even if only behind the scenes is beneficial for discussion, collaboration and launching of important future initiatives. If we all disassociated, because one is labelled a scumbag, grifter, or in my case a U.N. Operative (that was creative), there wouldn’t be any of us left!

That said, this year, I will focus my attention on integral individuals and organizations who want to work with me.

Gifts are best developed with good mentors, and I need to grow like everyone else.

Its like a ladder.

We are on Different Rungs.

One Hand Reaching Up

One Hand Reaching Down.

While some are helping me, I am helping others.

The Key is Balance,

Lest You are Pulled Down OR Begin to Think Too Highly of Yourself.