Author's note: Spider-man is owned by Marvel Comics. I receive no monetary reward from the following story. Setting could be in any major Marvel universe.
Cover pencils by Victor Olazaba.
Hello, God.
It's me again, Peter Parker. I'm also Spider-man, but you already know that and the fact that I'm sticking to the side of a building kind-of gives it away. I'm doing what I love: fighting crime, saving kids from burning buildings, hanging out with the Avengers, and working on a scientific research project. Everyone would think I'm happy, but no matter what I do, no matter how hard I try, I don't feel like I'm getting it right.
When I'm studying I feel guilty because I could be out there, saving people. When I'm Spider-man I – well I can't save everyone. People die. They die because I can't stop them because I can't stop the Lizard from eating them, or because I couldn't stop New York City from flooding, or because they kill each other. And every person I couldn't save reminds me of Uncle Ben.
I feel this is an impossible standard. I also feel that "With great power comes great responsibility."
The two are irreconcilable.
I can't relax. Yesterday I tried. I started by reading a book, but I kept flipping around and reading all the spoilers. I tried the internet, but I didn't stay on any page more than twenty seconds. Then I watched T.V., but everything kept getting boring.
I should've just studied or patrolled.
But I had a headache from Batroc the Leaper booting my ear.
So, now I'm clinging to the side of a building. I see a fire near Aunt May's soup kitchen. I web myself a face mask to keep the smoke out of my lungs.
God, keep the people safe.
Help me.
Amen.