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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Essential Truth #1

Life is hard.

You probably don’t remember when
you were first signed by the cross,
or marked in some other sacred way
to symbolize that life is hard.

Or maybe you remember it well,
that very first punch in the gut,
and have known ever since
life is bitter and difficult.

But even if you learned it late
because of some early good fortune,
experience removes all uncertainty
of life’s pain and misery.

Remember this:
A hard day is a blessing.
An easy day is a blessing.

Every path that you choose,
or that will be chosen for you,
in due time affirms
both are true.