Instructions for Entering Paradise

by AMY MILLER

It’s true that soon you’ll leave. But there’s no need 
to worry; you’ll have everyone you know 
around you. Remember, it was cold 
just weeks ago. Now sun. You’ll have

everyone you know, the sun, the well-worn path, 
the mud. In sun, you’ll hear a rumble 
and a squeal. Don’t worry. You’ll see 
a metal rumble, see a box. You’ll sway

with others in a line. Don’t break, 
don’t make a sudden, unfamiliar 
break. Remember sun, your friends, 
the ones around you. You are there

for them. Then a night of travel. Travel! 
You have never traveled, but be sure
it is a dream, a destination full of sounds. 
Be sure to lean on all your friends,

who will need you and may need a little 
reassurance. Be the sun! The darkness
is a blessing, so much glare outside. 
Sometimes it’s better not to see. The sound

you’ll hear will be an opening to sun. 
Or clouds. We cannot say exactly
the conditions, but you’ll hear 
a squeal, then light and startle—time 

to move! This time feel free to rush, 
for next there is a maze. You’ve never seen
anything like it. Don’t be afraid. 
Your friends will be there. Keep moving.