Herman

About a turtle

Herman

Turtles frequently wandered through my childhood yard near the woods. Sometimes I would catch one and keep it as a pet for a few hours. Once, in my imagination, a very special turtle led me into the woods where I had many adventures and met a few other magical creatures.

Not too long ago, a turtle visited me. It was the first time in years that I found one in my yard. He told me his name was Herman, and we played together for a while. Before he left, he said that I was remembered in what was left of the woods nearby. This surprised and delighted me, and I thanked him as he crawled away.

I had always hoped that my spirit animal might be a bird of some kind. However, thinking back on my life and taking a good look at myself, I see that the turtle may be more appropriate. Turtles may move slowly sometimes, but they stay the course and find ways to move forward, even during “heavy” times. They withdraw into their shells as needed to recharge, and emerge ready to face whatever comes next. Seems like a perfect fit for me.