According to legend, there was once a snake that began to pursue a firefly. The firefly would quickly move away, fearful of the fierce predator, but the snake would not let up. The firefly escaped for a day and the snake followed; the firefly fled for another day and the snake followed. On the third day, totally exhausted, the firefly stopped trying to flee and confronted the snake: “May I ask you three questions?”
The snake answered: “I’m not in the habit of granting anyone any favors, but since I’m about to devour you, go ahead and ask.”
The firefly said: “Am I part of your food chain, I mean, do you normally eat fireflies?”
“No,” the snake answered.
“Have I ever done you any harm?” the firefly then asked.
“No,” replied the snake.
“Then why do you want to do away with me?” the firefly questioned.
“Because,” said the snake, “I can’t stand to see you shine.”
