Four Feet from Disaster

Mood: relieved

Tonight I was driving home from Bella's and I came within four feet or so from hitting a stray dog. Three things prevented it:

1. Bella gasped, a gasp being all she could manage to vocalize,


2. the fact that I was not speeding, and


3. my apparently fast reflexes.

I was beginning to wonder when my reflexes would be tested. I just wish they didn't have to be tested on a poor, innocent dog. I'll never forget how he stopped in front of the car, looked at me, and said: "Oh shit. I'm gonna die." When the car halted mere feet from him, he quickly decided that he sure as hell better get across the street.

I don't know what I would have done if I had hit him. I mean other than taking him to the nearest emergency animal hospital. But after that I would be an emotional mess.

I must say I am rather impressed with how I handled it. I didn't completely freak out and slam on the breaks (which, of course, would have resulted in my skidding into the dog). It's like my reflexes just pushed all thoughts or doubts out of my head and directed my body to do the right thing.

Or maybe it wasn't my reflexes but something more?

Regardless... THANK GOD!