But HOW? That is the dilemma I'm in. I want to get involved in these three creative communities again, but well-established people whom I've known for a long time (when I was active in these communities ten years ago) have literally destroyed my reputation with strangers who are people I'd need to connect with, to get involved again.

How do I re-enter these communities without any allies, without any 'protection' other than my own belief that I have value and worth, despite what these four jerks have said about me to others and would continue to say, once I get involved in those communities again.

Clearly, some people have dealt with this situation and overcome the hurdles that come with dealing with difficult people who want nothing more than to undermine the progress and happiness of people they dislike.

I'm fed up and feel powerless. These people are no better than me. They are not more special, not more talented. I have never said anything negative about them, or treated them wrongly in any way. I have no idea why they dislike me either, but they do.