when someone tries to make you smaller

So last week I posted a vulnerable video. I prayed before recording and allowed myself to flow. I posted it and got a comment that felt... off. 

I used a "bad word" in the video, and then allowed myself to process why I did that. I also released the need to defend my position. As a mother to three little mini-me's, I'm very cautious of my language and modeling.

A woman commented, "I curse too when necessary and I love God. I'm spiritual, not religious."

My immediate thought was "we not the same."

As a Christian woman with a platform, I'm held to a higher standard. And, I hold myself to a higher standard because I really don't want corrupt communication to proceed from my mouth - only what edifies.

And in my case, it was edifying and felt empowered.

But her comment? That was a humbling tactic disguised as being relatable.

A year ago, I might've second-guessed myself. Maybe softened my response. Definitely would have worried about seeming "harsh."

But not this time.

I handled it with what I like to call Holy Hot Girl™ energy - gracious but unmovable. Clear but not cruel. Authoritative without being apologetic. 

I practiced my own medicine of Moving Powerfully - one of The 6 Self-Mastery Skills™. 

You know what I love about this moment?  

It showed me how much I've grown. How I can maintain my authority while elevating the conversation. How I can set boundaries without losing my heart. 

And honestly? It felt really good to not shrink.

There's something beautiful about operating from that centered place where you don't need to defend or explain - you just know who you are and you honor that.

There's something powerful about staying in your truth - it creates space for others to find theirs too. 👑 

You deserve to feel this free too. 

To your enhancement with no apologies, 

Monique