I Killed a Turtle — Now I Have Mixed Feelings About It
Wouldn’t you?
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While driving to Starbucks on a gorgeous spring day, I saw a turtle inch across the busy street, slowly but surely into my lane.
There was a car behind me, so I couldn’t slow down.
Instead, I did my best to move over to the left, to miss the reptile, and prevent an accident by this sudden maneuver.
I heard a crunch as I drove by, yikes! Then checked my rearview mirror to see the turtle move as if in pain — sure to be flattened by oncoming traffic.
This bothered me! I had empathy for the reptile’s vulnerability, and certain agony. I felt guilty that my vehicle was the cause.
To manage these uncomfortable feelings, my thoughts were:
Too bad; it shouldn’t have crossed the road; being hit was inevitable!
The car behind me would’ve run the turtle over anyway, if I didn’t.
The poor thing doesn’t know the dangers of crossing a busy street.
I did my best!
I would’ve felt worse if I had to drive straight through, but maybe this would’ve helped. Maybe the turtle would’ve been under my car by then; and away from the tires.
Sometimes, you have to drive straight through; when there’s no time to stop for an animal on the road.
It’s not easy! With seconds to decide proximity, size of the animal, your speed, if other cars and barriers surround you.
There’s too much to consider!
Honestly, in unavoidable circumstances like this. I prefer someone else do the dirty deed, so it’s not on my conscience.
I know — selfish.
I tried to prevent the situation from getting to me, and this worked … for a moment.
I enjoyed my time at Starbucks. Being out and about around others was great for my mental health.
Yet, while on my way home, the thoughts returned.
