In elementary school, Stephanie (they/them) hated writing. With below-average fine motor skills and sensory issues, writing with a pencil or pen felt like a punishment. It was around middle school when Stephanie developed the opposite problem: they went from not writing enough to writing too much! Unfortunately, abusive family members would punish Stephanie for speaking up. So, Stephanie took to the computer and wrote what couldn't be said out loud. They mostly composed poetry and original short stories, with occasional fan-fictions. But they also explored the difficulties of their life. Most of these struggles related to their deepest desire: autonomy. They knew this wish would never be granted - it would have to be fought for. Writing became their weapon, fortress, and balm. As an adult, Stephanie has gained a level of freedom their younger self could only imagine. They are active in disability advocacy. They take classes and teach at Park's Taekwondo Academy, their goal to become the first openly autistic Grandmaster in the front of their mind. They attend a reconciling congregation, sharing the commitment to welcome and affirm all. The kid who couldn't stand writing grew into a teen who couldn't survive without it. Eventually that teen grew into an adult who still wields the written word. The irony - and victory - are both delicious.