I’m sorry Bug
What I learned from stepping on a bug and breaking its leg
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I was walking along the river when I heard what sounded like an animal in distress. It was a high-pitched rhythmic noise. I couldn’t place where it was coming from. The water was flat, the sidewalk empty, and not even the wind was enough to shake the branches.
Then I heard it again.
This time, looking down, I saw it.
This is that story.
Bug: Ouch, fuck!
Me: Oh my god, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to step on you Bug. I didn’t even see you there.
Bug: You broke my leg.
Me: I’m sorry, I didn’t even see you there.
Bug: I can’t walk.
Me: What about flying? Can you still fly? Are your win-
Bug: Let me try.
(Bug tries flying)
Bug: Can’t fly.
Me: Want me to call an ambulance?
Bug: No. I don’t have health insurance. I’ll call Mark.
Me: Who is Mark?
Bug: Another bug.
Me: Ok, I’ll wait here with you.
(Bug calls Mark)
Mark: Buzzidy buzz buzz it’s Mark, what can I do ya for?
Bug: Mark, it’s Bug, a human stepped on me and broke my leg, can you come help?
Mark: Yes. Where are you?
Bug: By the river. I can’t fly either, you may need to bring S.
Mark: We’ll be right there.
Me: Who’s S?
Bug: The Swarm. They’re coming.
Me: What does that mean? You know I didn’t mean to hurt you right? Why does the swarm need to co-
Bug: To carry me home. This isn’t about you.
(Bug and I wait in silence for 4 minutes)
Me: You know Bug, I really am sorry.
Bug: Yep.
Me: No really, I am, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to step on you.
Bug: Sorry doesn’t mean shit. And I love shit.
