Lessons From A Turtle

Lonesome George was the last known Pinta Island tortoise. And when he died, that subspecies of Galapagos tortoise was declared extinct. George was thought to be about a hundred years old, and lived in captivity the last forty years of his life.

I don’t know if George experienced loneliness. Humans dubbed him “lonely” because he was the last of his subspecies. Did he know he was the last — that he would not be the ancestor that other turtles could call grandfather?

I’d wager George didn’t count his birthdays. It seems he just lived — every day — just as each day happened over the century he was alive.

Did George realize he wasn’t free to roam outside of the protected environment? And did he know that people watched over him and took care of him so he would thrive?

I value the life experiences of others. And I appreciate the lessons George taught me.

** I don’t have to accept the labels others put on me based on their perceptions.

** Loneliness (or the impact I have) isn’t gauged by the number in my family, or if I have children or grandchildren.

** The number of days isn’t as important as living every day just as the day occurs.

** It’s best to live at the pace that’s right for me.

** Freedom to do everything I want is overrated when it endangers me.

** One of the most valuable gifts I receive is being cared for and helped to thrive.

Not a bad legacy for a turtle. Thanks, George. I’ll miss your kind.

What life lessons will you share? I’d love to hear them.

Lessons From A Turtle – What life lessons will you share? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.