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“If you have a voice, be prepared to be challenged.” At a recent event, I was approached by an older gentleman. At first, his energy was pleasant and curious. He browsed my offerings, intrigued by Intuitivitea, but became still when he noticed Roar of Rebirth. Our polite conversation paused as he reached for the journal, opened to the introduction of Phase 1: The Whisper and stepped away from my table to read.

About fifteen minutes later, he returned to my booth and asked, “What books did you read to accomplish this?” In his mind, I must have studied Jung or Nietzsche to create such work. While I have indeed read many books and studied various teachings over my decades-long spiritual journey, they were not the core inspiration behind Roar of Rebirth.

Although his tone felt accusatory, I approached his inquiry with thoughtfulness, poise and calm clarity. I explained that this guided journal was born from over twenty years of journaling, healing, epiphanies and breakthroughs during my own healing journey.

He paused for a moment, seemingly surprised by my answer. Until then, the conversation had suggested he expected my work to be rooted primarily in academic philosophy rather than lived experience.

I further explained that my role in writing Roar of Rebirth was not to be a guru, but a guide—a guide who has walked the path and now shines a light for others to discover their own, to reap their rewards and to share their experiences with others.

I added, “I don’t need to wear a crown to be a queen. My energy comes from within.”

My response did not please him and the energy between us became argumentative. It wasn't the first time someone questioned my voice and it likely won't be the last. Whenever we create something deeply personal, there will be people who try to explain it away, fit it into a familiar box or challenge its legitimacy. That doesn't make our voice any less worthy; it simply reminds us that authenticity isn't always comfortable.

The Amanda from ten years ago would have been quiet, awkward and vulnerable—and she was. I remember countless people challenging me when I launched Intuitivitea in 2018. I did not expect that response and it hurt. However, there have been countless times Intuitivitea has changed lives and perspectives and for that reason, I keep going.

Over the last decade, my confidence has grown. When I meet individuals who challenge my voice, I respond with patience and grace. Everyone is entitled to their own truth and perhaps I was a mirror reflecting a truth he has yet to discover.

My value—and your value—is not determined by someone else’s belief of who or what we should be. Share your voice. Trust your truth. And remember that every rejection makes room for countless opportunities to be seen by the people who truly need your message.

With warmth,
Amanda May
Founder & Creator | Tea Phases
Colorado Native | Artisan & Author since 2014