Sorry... I usually try to keep my comments tied to the text, but since you so clearly identified as the speaker, i figure i have a little room....
It would seem that the men in your life have equated the words "bi-!@h" and "strong".
When you speak in the third person you give that voice space.
When you speak in the first, you own the label they stamped you with.
I would encourage you to write your own labels.