"L'ange déchu devient un diable malveillant"

When someone who was once good and trustworthy turns bad, their actions can become even more harmful than you'd imagine. It's like when a hero turns to the dark side—suddenly, their power and influence, which once did so much good, are now being used to hurt people.

Think about the story of Lucifer in religious texts. Originally, he was one of the most beautiful and favored angels. But when he fell from grace, he didn't just disappear—he became something far more dangerous. His fall transformed him into Satan, a figure of immense evil and malice. This shift from a being of light to one of darkness made him uniquely powerful and threatening.

Now, let’s bring this idea into the real world. Picture a trusted political leader, someone who’s fought for justice and earned the public's love. But suppose this leader suddenly becomes corrupt. Their charisma and influence, once used for noble causes, now propagate deceit and manipulation. People trusted them, which means they have access to vulnerabilities others wouldn’t. The damage they can do is profound because they know the system and have a following that believes in them.

Take the example of Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States. He was seen as a dedicated public servant, building a career on combating communism and preserving American values. But when the Watergate scandal broke, revealing his involvement in illegal activities and cover-ups, the trust the public had placed in him was shattered. His fall from grace wasn't just a personal tragedy; it had ripple effects throughout the country, damaging the credibility of the presidency and shaking the public’s faith in government.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? First, be discerning about who you trust. Even the most reliable people can change. It doesn't mean you should be cynical, but it's wise to be cautious. Look for consistency in actions over time and be aware of red flags. Second, hold yourself accountable. If you find yourself in a position of power or influence, remember that a single fall can undo years of good work. Keep your integrity intact—don’t let short-term gains lure you into becoming someone you’re not.

Imagine you're the captain of your high school soccer team. Your team looks up to you, and you’ve always been fair and encouraging. But what if you started playing dirty to win games? At first, it might seem like a small compromise. But soon, the values you once stood for are eroded, and your influence becomes something toxic. Your teammates, who once saw you as a role model, now follow your lead into harmful behaviors. It's not just about losing a game; it's about losing the essence of what made the team strong and united.

Remember, the greater the height, the harder the fall. When someone good falls from grace, their potential for harm can be enormous because they know exactly where and how to strike. Stay vigilant and true to your principles, and you’ll prevent yourself from becoming that fallen angel who turns into a malignant devil.