The Collected Writings of Brian J. Mueller

A single poem, met at the right moment, can change a life.

Search and read all 1,834 pieces by Brian J. Mueller — 1,675 poems, 38 prose pieces, and 121 haiku from 12 published volumes. Free to read and share.

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Authenticity

Authenticity is raw,
cracked like old leather,
a firm slap on cold flesh.

Authenticity is the breath,
easy like your favorite chair,
sometimes shallow,
and sometimes deep.

Authenticity is waking up
when the spirits move you,
and when you’re ready
to commune with those spirits.

Authenticity is a child’s confusion
about which world is real,
and to which world
her parents belong.

Authenticity is stumbling
over the gold at your feet,
and leaving what you don’t need
so the next bumbler can find it.

Authenticity is becoming the author
of a book you’ll never publish,
but will nevertheless inspire others
to go on their own spiritual journey.