As Tracie continued with her interviews, she began to marvel at how perceptive Charley was at picking a diverse group. Each of the interns came from different backgrounds, but more importantly they came with different outlooks on life. Despite all their differences, there was a common desire to make things different. She wondered what Peyton would bring to that mix.
Tracie: I’m excited to talk with you. Several of your fellow interns told me that you were the one that got them fired up when they were down. I’d like to explore that in a minute, but could you share the value shaping event that began your journey to make a difference?
Peyton: Sure. But I have to warn you that I may become very volatile. So don’t be frightened if I get too wound up.
My 13 year old cousin was raped by her father and as a result became pregnant. Her mother was afraid to confront her father. When I tried to get our local sheriff involved, I just faced a stone wall. She was discouraged from terminating her pregnancy by her fundamentalist preacher who put the blame on her.
I could continue, but I want to avoid getting too emotional. Unfortunately, the same situation was happening throughout the community where I lived. Women were simply thought to be sub-humans by the men in charge.
Tracie: I can tell from just this simple introduction, you do get fired up. Do you think that’s an essential quality for a difference maker?
Peyton: Yes and no. There are times when you can be too in your face in the way you approach others. I had a problem in scaring off potential believers in my cause.
But you also have to be passionate about your cause. For me, it was hard to balance my fiery passion with the steady determination that is needed to bring others to the cause.
Tracie: How did you accomplish that?
Peyton: It wasn’t easy. Do you see this handmade bracelet I have on my wrist? It is just string and a series of cheap beads. When I get too excited, I have developed a reflex that snaps the string and the beads fly everywhere. It takes time to gather those beads up and by the time I’ve got them all, I’ve calmed down.
Tracie: That’s an image I’ll never forget. I’m impressed by how much strength it must take to break that string.
Peyton: I guess that’s the power of adrenaline.
Tracie: Now I can see why other interns turn to you when they are discouraged. Would you mind if I turn to you?
Peyton: Not at all. I’m good at helping others sustain their outrage.
* * *
“What you need is sustained outrage…there’s far too much unthinking respect given to authority.” – Molly Ivins (Author, Activist)