.. missing the last bus home.

There's nothing worse than missing the last bus home.  As you are approaching the bus stop you see it disappearing off into the night sky. Frantic waving is useless, the driver has no inclination to stop and wait for you, even if she/he is sure you aren't a terrorist, drunk or a troublemaker. You know it is the last bus, and curse yourself for ordering the tiramisu instead of taking a piece of Black Forest gateau from the dessert tray. Your first act is to stand at the bus stop and look as if you are expecting another bus to come, as a way of denying the truth. This waiting period is usually about fifteen minutes, and passes surprisingly quickly. There is no need to do or think of anything constructive during this period of time. Then comes a period of contemplation about your place in the world. If you were John Paul Getty (junior) or Oprah Winfrey you would not be in this predicament. Why you, what have you done to deserve this? Is this conclusive proof that you are, in fact, the worthless, dysfunctional individual that everyone thinks you are?