Vanishing Points

Start by swallowing the loudest truth.

Let it rest beneath the tongue until it forgets how to move.

Breathe shallow. Smile enough. Nod when spoken to.

Carry your feelings like folded paper—

flat, unwrinkled, unread.

Leave the corners of your voice in every room

but never your presence.

Speak only when asked,

and even then—only halfway.

Use silence like armor.

Let “I’m fine” be your favorite lie.

Avoid mirrors.

Or better—look into them

until you forget the name you once whispered with pride.

Stay still. Be useful.

But never too much of either.

Let them forget why they needed you.

Disappear like steam from a morning shower—

not noticed, not mourned.

Just… gone.