What degree of murder is it if you just can't help it?

Yesterday was rather traumatic. On a scale of 1 to Depressing it was like a 4, but that's a lot for me!* On my way into work I ran over a squirrel. I'm pretty sure I killed it, and I felt terrible. Is it silly that over all of the stress in my life (grad school, moving, being sick, etc.) I am most upset over the instant death of an adorable defenseless woodland creature? I don't think so.

During my first class, my kids were more than a little worked up. I pleaded to their humanitarian sides by telling them I was in a bit of a sour mood due to the unintentional murder I had committed. I told them how he appeared in the middle of the street and how there were cars behind me and I couldn't stop... I told the tale to best of my ability and almost titled it "Death of a Squirrel"***. Most of the kids laughed at the tears welling in my eyes, a few asked if we could just start warm-ups, and a few sympathetic girls sighed dramatically- then we continued with our day.

I drove into work without harming any innocent creatures today, I should probably get a gold star. Unfortunately, this was sitting on my desk with a note that said: 

"Dear Miss H, I thought you'd like this".

What kind of sick and twisted child would do this?

What was the motive behind this twisted act? Was she trying to be supportive? Or has this child actually found my weakness? Did she mean to taunt me with the memory of those I have hurt? Or did she mean to comfort me? Should I be flattered or flabbergasted?

Either way, I have a lot more respect for this child. Thinking with the best intentions, I am touched that she thought of me and my feelings. With the worst intentions, I don't think I want to make her mad...

Happy weekend everybody, and may you all be given plush stuffed animals of anything you have accidentally killed!



*I'm like a young, white Bobby McFerrin**. I literally live with a constant soundtrack of DWBH playing.

**That's not true, I have nowhere near his talent or range. I just meant that I like to whistle and smile. Comparing myself to Bobby is like comparing Susan Boyle to Celine Dion. One is slightly awkward, and mildly talented... while Celine is the center or all things diva. I love Celine Dion.

***I would have, but thought Miller's people might sue for copyright infringements. I'm an opera singer who teaches at an inner city school as her day job, does it sound like I can afford copyright infringements.