I am not sure that you are aware of the fact that I collect turtles.  In fact, I have a collection of over 75 turtles!   That’s right, 75!  To be clear, these 75 turtles are not alive.

You may ask, why, Neil, why the fascination with turtles?

I have had this fascination for turtles for years. I am not really sure what sparked it. Maybe it was the first time I held a turtle in my hands. I was mesmerized by the solidity and strength of the shell.  I was intrigued by the intricate patterns on its shell.  I was impressed by the turtle’s ability to decide to withdraw his head and retreat to safety at any moment.  I could also see the gleam in the turtle’s eyes, so large and so searching.  sure, it moved slowly and deliberately, but I had the feeling that it knew what it was doing every time it moved.

These initial impressions sparked a lifelong admiration for these remarkable creatures. Their quiet wisdom, patient movements, and enduring resilience resonate with me on a level that feels almost spiritual.

A little research discovers that turtles symbolize longevity, wisdom, and protection in various cultures like Native American, Asian, and Chinese. They represent Mother Earth, stability, and fertility in Native American traditions. In Hindu mythology, turtles symbolize the universe, with their shell as the heavens and body as the earth.

For some time i have been trying to articulate what turtles mean to me.  Here are some of the lessons I glean from turtles.

Lesson 1: Perseverance Over Patience

While patience is often associated with turtles, I must confess that patience is not one of my natural traits. Anyone who knows me knows that I am unbelievably impatient. Yet, what turtles and I do share is unwavering perseverance. Turtles remind me that even if the pace is slow, the important thing is to persist.

Lesson 2: Resilience in the Face of Adversity

A turtle’s shell is its fortress. It offers protection, allowing the creature to withdraw and weather challenges. Life, much like nature, can be unpredictable, throwing storms our way when we least expect them. The turtle’s ability to retreat and regroup is a powerful metaphor for resilience.

Lesson 3: Longevity as a Testament to Endurance

Some turtles live for more than a century, their long lives a testament to the power of persistence. One of the most well-known examples was Lonesome George, the famous Galapagos tortoise who lived for over 100 years. Stories like his remind us that enduring the ups and downs of life — hopefully with grace — can lead to a rich and fulfilling existence.

Lesson 4: Sticking Your Neck Out

One of my favorite sayings is: “Behold the turtle. He makes progress only when he sticks his neck out.” This powerful metaphor reminds me that progress often requires taking risks. The turtle teaches us that growth and achievement often lie on the other side of vulnerability.

The Turtle Mindset

Taking these lessons to heart leads me to what might be called a Turtle Mindset.  It’s a mindset that encourages us to:

1. Move with Purpose: Just as a turtle doesn’t waste energy on unnecessary motion, we can strive to be intentional in our actions, focusing on what truly matters.
2. Protect Our Inner World: Like a turtle’s shell, we need to create boundaries that safeguard our emotional and mental well-being. Knowing when to retreat and take care of ourselves is crucial.
3. Celebrate Progress: No matter how slow or incremental, progress is progress. The turtle’s steady gait is a reminder that even the smallest steps can lead to monumental achievements.
4. Stay the Course: Life’s challenges are inevitable, but like the turtle navigating across vast terrains, we can persevere with determination and faith.
5. Take Risks: Sticking our neck out, like the turtle, can lead to the greatest rewards. It’s a call to be brave, to embrace vulnerability, and to step boldly into the unknown.

When I look at the turtles in my collection, each one tells a story. These turtles come from places I’ve visited, moments I’ve cherished, and lessons I’ve learned. Together, they form a mosaic of my own journey.

The Unexpected Humor of Turtles

As much as turtles are a source of wisdom, they also have their quirks. Did you know that some species of turtles can actually breathe through their butts? Yes, it’s called cloacal respiration—a survival mechanism that allows them to stay underwater longer. Now, that’s resourcefulness! And if you’ve ever watched a turtle flip itself over after landing on its back, you know it’s a determined—and surprisingly comedic—process.

The turtle mindset is more than an admiration for these remarkable creatures; it’s a way of living.

And every time I see a turtle, whether in nature, in my collection, or even in the stories of my grandsons, I’m reminded to pause, reflect, and carry on with purpose. The turtle shows us how to savor every step along the way.

Bottom line.  What does it mean to adopt the “Turtle Mindset”?   For me, it’s about embodying perseverance, resilience, and yet, at the same time, being willing to take some risks.