At the Israeli Security Checkpoint in Occupied Palestine

As you approach the checkpoint
Have all your papers in perfect order.
Hold them just in front of you.
Always keep your hands clearly in view.
Always be humble,
Pretend you respect them.
Never stare at the guns.
And never, never change your mind and run.
(Even if you have now almost forgotten
What it was you so badly needed to do).
Remember, they are nervous,
They might do anything.
And you are nervous too,
And there is nothing at all that you can do…
Above all,
Never look them in the eyes
            (It frightens them…)