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THE 2026 POETRY IS LIFE BOOK AWARD WINNER

INNER CIRCLE
by Carol Mullins
 
$15.00 plus shipping & tax
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Part of the reason this book was chosen as the winner was because it was like sitting on the porch in the country listening to the wisdom of grandma, sipping lemonade while she shared stories of her life. The poems in this book speak to the beauty and brutality of life, the work of resilience and the work it takes to be authentic when it is so easy to be someone other than yourself. This book takes on tragedy with humbleness and strength with a no-quit attitude. And as you savor that last sip of lemonade just as the sun begins to set, you are grateful for those in your inner circle, those that have been there for you through the tuff times, celebrating and supporting you in all seasons of life. Savoring friendships, savoring family time, savoring each day that God has given you.

Here’s the poem

“Rise Up!”

When life seems hard, as it often does,
When weights are making you stumble
Trust your ability to make things work
You have the opportunity not to fumble.

Push back those shoulders, raise up your head
Put on a happy smile!
Happy is as happy does
Get ready to go that extra mile!

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