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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Tuesday Night at Nova House

I gaze at my captive audience
sitting there and waiting,
staring back at me,
but really only wanting
to see their loved ones.

I’m standing at the gateway,
and my promise is
that if you’ll listen to me,
I’ll get out of the way.

I never truly want to be here
until I finally arrive here.
And then I never know what to say
until it’s my turn to speak.

I begin with this intention:
Let me do no harm
Then I add a prayer:
Let me say something worthwhile.

I begin a bit nervously,
then grow louder and more confident.
When I notice I’m rambling,
it’s time for me to step aside.