Instructions for Disappearing

Instructions for Disappearing

First,

stand very still—

as he enters the room,

shoulders as broad as the kitchen door.

Relearn everything about him:

the countries he sailed to in the navy,

the men he knew,

the terrifying fights,

the bottles emptied,

Understand that the world was always better

before you arrived.

Next,

do not speak.

Fold yourself into awe,

smaller than your shadow.

Remember: you are not significant enough to interject

(and may never be).

Besides, it is rude to interrupt an adult,

to leave the room,

to blink.

Instead,

nod when he does.

Force a laugh.

Do not breathe too loudly.

When he is done,

watch him turn to the drinks cabinet,

pour whiskey,

follow the television’s glow.

Do not follow him.

Afterwards,

wander the house.

Pretend you are already gone.

Learn how to unfasten your body from itself,

to shrink until your skin

no longer fits.

With practice,

You can teach anyone this:

how to be so quiet,

so thin,

they may as well

never have been born at all.