of dying and death

Today is trash day, so this morning, I walked outside to deposit our garbage can at the corner. I noticed a raccoon hanging out in the driveway nudging through leaves. I thought it odd that she was out in daylight, but I was kind of entertained by it. As I walked slowly past, it surprised me that the raccoon didn't scurry away or even take much note of me. I dropped off the trash can and went back inside through the front door, avoiding the raccoon. Every now and then, I'd look out to see if she had gone, but the raccoon seemed sleepy and decided to curl up in the leaves under the big oak tree that divides our yard and our neighbor's.

About an hour later, it was time to go to work, so I grabbed my bike and was heading out - the raccoon was still there. She slowly rose to her feet and I noticed that she wasn't using one of her legs, I looked more closely and saw that her eyes were glassy and that she seemed unable to close her mouth. Suddenly, overcome, I realized that she was dying.

Strange to be confronted with death on your way to work, with so many other things on your mind. I was overwhelmed and helpless. I put a little tray of water out for her, never getting to close in order not to frighten her, and I talked softly to her - hoping she felt comforted. I called Animal Control - the dispatcher told me to do nothing, that they would be there soon.

I didn't wait. Not because I needed to rush to work, but because I couldn't be there when Animal Control arrived. I hope that she dies before they get there.