Squirrel

As I was driving this morning a squirrel darted out in front of my car.

This is my worst fear. I love all these cute little neighborhood animals and would never intentionally injure one. But they dash out into the street full speed into oncoming traffic. If you're too close when they make their mad dash, then they have no hope, like this poor guy.

I jammed the clutch and brake, but he had dashed only about 5 feet in front of my car and I was cruising at a good 40+ mph. I barely slowed the car down when I felt the telltale thud reverberate through the car's chassis.

I knew at that moment I hit the animal. However, hope springs eternal. I searched the rearview mirror. I saw the fuzzy animal sprawled out flailing on the ground. The throes of death.

This is the third animal, that I am aware of, that I've killed since I got my license 17 years ago. It doesn't get easier. I hate how it feels.