Ushers

by Joe Hill

It’s one of these fundamental human things, reminds you you’re part of nature. We forget that, you know. Or try not to think about it. Which is stupid. It’s better to just be a mammal.

“It’s a funny thing to lie about.” “Is it, though? Makes a great Instagram story, doesn’t it? A creepy random encounter and a narrow brush with death? It was such a great story it got her on TV, like you said. Social media brings out the worst in people. They’ll say anything for the likes.”

People die. I don’t want to be the reason some live and some don’t. It’s best to just . . . be a mammal. Eat as much fresh fruit as you can. Spend time with trees. Hug the people you love. Accept that death is as natural as the rest of life. Dogs understand that. Cats understand that. Only humans have a hard time with it. And when it’s over, at least there’s someone there. At least you aren’t alone.”