The Turtle for the Thalamus

In June 2004, Sara and Marco made the beautiful decision to solidify their love for one another by getting married. I was genuinely saddened that I couldn't attend their special day. Being so far away from such an important occasion filled me with a sense of longing, as I wished to be there to celebrate their union and share in the joy of their commitment. In my heart, I wanted to gift them something very special, something that would convey my love and best wishes, yet it needed to be light and compact enough to be easily sent as a parcel across the miles.

As I pondered over what gift would encapsulate my feelings for them, I remembered that one of Sara's favorite animals is the turtle. This gentle creature, often associated with wisdom and longevity, reminded me of the values I wanted to impart through my gift. The turtle is not just an ordinary animal; it carries with it a wealth of symbolism and meaning that resonates deeply with the essence of life and relationships.

The Turtle teaches us truth.

To know truth is to know and understand all of the original laws as given by the Creator and to remain faithful to them. This profound understanding of truth is essential in nurturing a strong and lasting relationship, as it fosters trust, respect, and a deep connection between partners. The turtle, with its slow and deliberate movements, encourages us to take our time in discovering these truths, reminding us that the journey of love is just as important as the destination.

Around the world, the turtle can be seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, embodying the lessons learned through ages and experiences. It possesses the remarkable ability to defend itself on its own, representing the strength and resilience that is often required in both life and love. Additionally, the turtle can be regarded as personifying elements such as water, the moon, the Earth, time, immortality, and fertility. Each of these aspects contributes to the rich tapestry of life, reminding us of the cycles of nature and the importance of nurturing our relationships as they grow and evolve.

This wise and enduring amphibious creature, symbolic of so many profound concepts, now finds itself hanging in the bedroom of Sara and Marco's three boys. Each time they see the turtle, I hope they will be inspired to embrace these qualities in their own lives, fostering a spirit of understanding and compassion as they grow.