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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Show You My Palms (A Prayer)

What did I reach for
before I had the words
to tell you
I am hungry,
thirsty,
wanting to be held.

I showed you the palms
of my open hands
and somehow you knew
my deepest desires.

Now I live in a world
overpopulated by words -
their lack of precision
like a thousand spoons
when what I need is a fork.

God,
show me the moon and the stars.
Offer me the sun
and thousands of puffy clouds.
Give me a dog to walk
and a shoulder to hug.
Let me say nothing
but show you my palms.