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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I See the Creek

...and find in it myself.

I get up,
get ready,
start the car,
and drive away.

I park and get out,
blink a few times,
then set out walking
in my chosen direction.

I walk down,
over and across,
then down some more,
following the fallen rocks.

I see the creek,
locate a level spot,
position my chair,
and take a seat.

I remove my sunglasses,
notice the breeze,
look up and realize
I can name all the trees.

Maple,
Sycamore,
Locust,
Black Walnut,
White Oak,
Poplar
and Cedar.

I exhale and wait.
The falling water calms me.
The vivid color reminds me
I’ve just come home.