Emily Loves
I was raised with the idea that helping others should be a part of daily life and I don’t feel quite myself if I am not being of service to my community. Many of the ways I engage in my community, including my work with the “Pray-Ground” at my church and with social groups for individuals with IDD through The Next Step Programs, have involved self-expression. I have always found self-expression to be a lifeline when I feel down or anxious. I like to offer the peace I find in poetry to others through art supplies and programs, including those focused on dance, creative writing, and meditation.
I am very close with both my biological family and my chosen family, who have provided me with support and inspiration in everything that I do. From the book We All Love Charlie, telling the birth story of my cousin’s daughter Charlie, to No Matter Where You’ve Been, a book filled with poems inspired by my church community at Salem UCC, the people I love are present in everything I write. I grew up with two amazing parents and a brother who became my best friend. I have tried to extend my love to the animals who come into my life as well. I adored my childhood cats, Maddie and Friskie, and I still think about my emotional support rabbit, Ethel, every day. Today, I have a Florida White rabbit named Molly who knows I would do anything for her. All the animals that I’ve had in my life have been rescues and I hope to continue this trend because I love showing those that society has overlooked that they are still worthy of love.