A Fable

A few days ago I pulled onto the freeway, on my way to work. I had driven a mile or two when I noticed a strange looking blade of grass clinging to my windshield on the passenger side. But it wasn't a blade of grass. It was a praying mantis hanging on by one claw. He seemed to be pretty concerned about things, as much as a praying mantis can be, I guess. I slowed as much as I could and pulled to the right lane, heading for the nearest exit. But he was apparently in a hurry and misjudged the strength of the wind. He stretched out one leg and let go with the other and that was all it took. I blinked and he was gone. He was beautiful. I wish he would have waited just a little longer.