@jennifer.lauren.rose: Toxic people thrive on getting a rise out of you, because the moment you explode, cry, or defend yourself, they can twist it into “proof” that you’re the problem. It’s the oldest manipulation tactic in the book: -Push your buttons -Get a reaction -Flip the script The way you get your power back? Stop playing the game. When you learn emotional regulation and detachment, their power over you dissolves. Stop feeding the drama. Hold your boundaries and disengage. See the manipulation for what it is. Your peace is your power. Stop allowing yourself to be baited. The only way to change these dynamics is to finally learn to choose yourself.