Do not run.
Let your breath sound ordinary.

Fold fear small.
Hide it behind the ribs.

Remember: borders are inventions:
the river knows nothing of them.

Step where reeds bend.
Follow animals;
they have crossed before you.

If light appears, become shadow.
If a voice calls out, become still.

Think of the place you left:
how soil warmed your hands,
how the dead knew your name.

Think of the place ahead
not as promise
but as ground you will learn.

When you arrive,
kneel once.

Touch the earth.
Begin.