When Intimidation Tries to Silence.

They Raised Their Voice. I Raised the Bar.

For the longest time, whenever someone escalated into yelling, I would become flustered. My body would shake to its core, and I would either fold or meet them at their level.

Yesterday was one of those days, but with a twist.

Although my hands and body vibrated with fearful trembles, I allowed my nerves to settle. I reminded myself that I did not go through everything I have endured for nothing. My dignity was once ripped from my being for the simple fact that they could—and they didn’t care. They had all the power. Money. Influence. Connections. And then some.

I am now facing these powerful people in federal court—by choice. One of their recent threats was loaded with hostility to say the least, for the sole purpose to hijack my nervous system, to make me fold under pressure because I am “playing” in their game: the law.

This aggressive, seven-page letter for sanctions freaked me out at first glance. My immediate thought was, “Ohhh, I’m done. I’m going to lose.” For the simple fact that it exceeded my understanding, stretching beyond my mental capacity in that second.

Intimidation bypasses logic and seeks emotional violation, provoking impulsive reactions while meticulously recording every slip they can—and will—weaponize against you.

Tapping into internal strength will require gaining control of the thoughts trampling through your mind by slowing your breath, and stepping back to center yourself. It is the critical choice not to abandon yourself when panic blindsides.

They only win if you stop trusting your instincts, begin questioning your moral obligations, and surrender faith in yourself. Their strategy depends on you shrinking to fit a mold you no longer belong in—and thankfully, this is something I reminded myself of before responding.

The younger me allowed others to define my worth. I was bogged down and burdened by caring what other people thought, often talked out of my own opinions and actions. Yesterday marked a significant step forward in how I responded—calmly, professionally, and with intention—to set the tone and raise the bar.

For those who may feel this way in moments of conflict, I offer this: trust yourself. Give yourself time to make a sound decision. Go for a walk. Hit the gym. There is rarely an urgency in meeting someone else’s demands.

It is time to turn the tables and choose ourselves, taking control of the life we all deserve to live.