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Oliver Turtle on 'Pet Turtles, Names and Friendship'
as received by D. Tremblay 7/2008
People need to understand that turtles are fragile and have tender feelings, just like you. We can be brave and bold when we must, but we can be meek and shy too. It takes great trust to get our attention. We dwell with infinity at our side and see from our upturned nose that it is you calling to us. Friend. And when we see you staring back at us, have the heart to call us by our name and say it with beauty. It’s a beautiful beginning to a relationship. A friendship.
Do not call us ‘Spot’ or something that has little meaning behind it, unless it has meaning to you and us. It’s the meaning and feeling behind the name we feel. We like that, feeling good, like you do. Names are special, and represent us. Like a persona. They represent what we mean to you, so choose a name with care. You wouldn't name your daughter something meaningless, would you? Choose a name with pride and lift it gently upon us.
Look at us with love and devotion. We look at you that way. We do not all like to be cuddled just like you would not like to be set into a fire. It’s hard to change the nature of things. It can be done with time and patience and understanding, but does it have to change at all? We still love you just the same. Blow us kisses if you will. We like that.
Know we look at you with trustful eyes, hoping you will kindly care for us, kindly call to us, tell us of your day. Do not forget us in the corner. We are not to be forgotten. We are not dirt that sits proudly on the ground. We have emotions and cares. One of the worst things that can happen to a turtle is to be forgotten by its person or to let the water foul and the tank become a rubbish heap. Care for us well and with love.
Turtles have beauty and charisma. We too often get overlooked. We like to be part of the family, part of the whole picture. And we are good watchers. Remember us, your little friends.
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