The Psychological Scar
The psychological impact on Mark was real. He developed a bit of a complex. Every shadow looked like a bug. Every tick of the house settling sounded like skittering claws. He stopped walking barefoot in his own home, always wearing slippers or shoes.
But the lesson was learned. The “stomp” is a satisfying reaction, but it is a primitive one. It satisfies the anger of the moment but sacrifices the safety of the future. It is a short-term win for a long-term loss. Mark now preaches the “No Squish” gospel to anyone who will listen.