There are lessons to be learned from all sources. In the Bhagavad-gita Krishna uses the humble tortoise to illustrate sense control: “One who is able to withdraw his senses from sense objects, as the tortoise draws its limbs within the shell, is firmly fixed in perfect consciousness.”
Here are some other lessons we can learn from a tortoise:
1. Slow and steady
Yesterday is gone and we yet don’t have tomorrow. We only have today and really only this moment. I like to call this “everyday eternal.” As the mind pulls us to the past of what was, or the future of what could be, our daily practice of focused Krishna meditation brings us to the now. If we do that steadily every day, with the patience and determination of a slow and steady tortoise, then as our external life moves along it’s destined path towards old age and death, our transcendental life will move towards it’s destination – experiencing the complete and ultimate expression of love.
2. Withdraw
When life gets too much – withdraw. As the tortoise pulls in it’s limbs when in danger, pull yourself back into a quiet space when you feel overwhelmed. Even better, practice retreating everyday to that most precious internal space of connecting with Krishna – whether through chanting, or singing, or reading about Him. Don’t wait until life is too stressful to do it – treat yourself to the benefits of withdrawing daily, and you will feel the difference.
3. Carry our Home
A turtle carries his home on his back. As the saying goes, “home is where the heart is.” What are you carrying in your heart? Welcome Krishna into your heart space – with Him there you will find it easy to keep a happy, open, generous, forgiving, and letting go heart.
4. Be Lean-able
In the Srimad-Bhagavatam story of Krishna’s incarnation as Kurma, the tortoise’s back provided the support needed to hold up a mountain. Be strong for others. Let them lean on you when they need to. To be strong in body and mind is a gift. Share it willingly and be a supporting part in another’s success. We truly become our best when we are helping others serve Krishna – and that’s the secret of pleasing Krishna as well.
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