Featured Poem: Dedicated to a Survivor—
This powerful piece was written in honor of the poet’s mother — a woman of immense courage and resilience who endured over 20 years of domestic violence. Though the past was painful, today she is alive, safe, and free.
Trigger Warning: This poem contains references to domestic violence, including emotional and physical abuse, which may be distressing for some readers.
You Do Love Me, Right?
I found you my love.
You kinda fill the void.
You kinda bring joy.
You leave me empty and destroyed.
But to me, you’re my love.
You slap me against the wall,
And make my soul weep.
You abuse me, yet force me not to leave.
All of this because you love me.
You do love me, right?
You only call me out my name,
when you’re frustrated.
That means I’m the problem.
You never fail to show me how much
you hate me,
but my undying love won’t push you away.
My yearning for love won’t let me.
Now that you’ve made me your punching bag
can you see that I want to be loved
so bad?
Can you see that I love you bad.
Cause then maybe
just maybe, you wouldn’t be so mad.
You manipulate me with your lies.
Leave me with all the silent cries.
You cut all of the joyful ties.
But that’s only because you love me.
You do love me, right?
Buy me a new purse,
that’ll cover for a bandage.
Spoil me with your riches,
that’ll make up for all of the damage.
I know you only do this because you love me.
You do love me, right?
This new car is the solution
to this new scar?
And the flowers and brunches are the
solution to all the slaps and punches?
Please, someone tell me.
This is love, right?
As long as you kiss the eye you blacked,
and rub the back you bruised,
You still love me.
You’ll always love me.
You told me you love me.
You do love me, right?
– Emily Jamese
For more of this poet’s work see her Instagram: @poetic.jayy
Let’s Talk
What emotions did this poem stir in you, and why do you think it’s important to share stories like this?
I’d love to hear from you in Community Voices discussion.
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Submissions are open—feel free to send in your work (poetry, letters, prayers, reflections, or survivor stories).
You can remain anonymous or include your name if you’d prefer the credit, whatever feels most comfortable.
Email me at contact@tayloredgrace.org
With love and grace,
Madison Taylore