The turtle has so many interesting characteristics to explore.  While most think that a turtle is just a slow moving creature, there are lessons that can be learned.  Are you interested in determination and staying strong?  Maybe creating peace and harmony…  Or is it the feminine energy of Mother Nature, holding everything in balance…

Two of the greatest stories ever told about persistence and determination involve a turtle.  There is the Native American folklore that explains why the American Continent is also known as “Turtle Island”.  While there are several variations, the story that has been passed down through the generations tells of Sky Woman ~ when she fell through the sky, the animals tried to take her back up.  Since they were unable, the Great Turtle let her rest on his back while the Muskrat dove to the bottom of the ocean in search of dirt.  They waited for an awfully long time and were ready to give up on the muskrat, but the Great Turtle had patience and offered his guidance as a form of trust.  Once the muskrat finally returned, Sky Woman used this dirt to rub circles on the turtle, re-creating the earth. 

Let’s not forget about The Tortoise and The Hare.  The Tortoise was a boastful sort, convinced that he was the best and that only his way would work.  Although normally about keeping the peace, the Tortoise spoke up and challenged the Hare to a race.  Hare took off rather quickly, completely confident that he would win.  He went so far as to take a nap knowing he was good enough.  But, wait!  What was Tortoise doing?  He carried the weight of the heavy shell and moved along one step at a time…  he didn’t stop…  and he won the race!

While the obvious moral to these two classic stories would seem to be of persistence and determination, there are a couple of other things I want you to think about.  The Great Turtle had dirt rubbed on his shell over and over, which probably created a mess.  Look at the shell of a turtle and see the individual strokes…  These circles of dirt represent our life and the beauty that can come from chaos when we stop to look…  Let’s not forget about the Tortoise.  Yes, he won the race and that is exciting.  But, do you know what else he did?  He was able to take his time and enjoy life.  You see, the Hare was so caught up in the here and now, he forgot to live in the moment.  The Tortoise, although slow, was able to walk along and experience life all around him.

This turtle is to remind you of your life’s journey.  Although the shell that you carry on your back may be heavy and you think it is slowing you down, it anchors you reminding you to stay patient and diligent.  Life goes by quick enough.  So, in the chaotic circles of life, take your time… And experience the beauty of life.