I remember my first time standing on a stage, there were at least 300 people in the crowd. The day before, I laid awake in my bed having mini panic attacks all night. I feared giving a piece of myself away to a room full of strangers. I feared being judged and I dreaded sympathy. Since I was a child, all I've ever known is darkness and controversy, but it is in that darkness I have found myself. Sharing my story was terrifying at first, but when those 300 people stood and applauded with tears in their eyes, when people came to hug me and tell me how inspiring I was, I realized my truth must not be hidden. I unleash my ghosts on stage and on paper. I unearth horrors some wouldn't dare to admit. My truth is my freedom, so I write it as often as I can. This is my liberation.