Turtles are fascinating creatures. Until recently, scientists have assumed that turtles retracted
their heads into their shells for protection from predators. According to new evolutionary
research published in Smithsonian Magazine, however, the original purpose was likely to enhance
the turtle’s ability to hunt for food. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/real-reason-
turtle-learned-hide-its-head-180962233/ Some turtles are herbivores, but most of them are
opportunistic omnivores. By drawing their head into their shells, turtles can strike out at prey such as
fish or small mammals with more force. Only after turtles had evolved this retracting ability did this trait
further evolve into a defensive strategy. Nevertheless, after hiding in its shell, the turtle must eventually
poke its head and feet out into the world to seek food, move around, and see what’s happening in the
world.
Similarly, when we humans disconnect from the outer physical world and withdraw into our inner
invisible world, we may ignore what’s going on in our outer experience. Sometimes we do the reverse:
stay fully involved with our worldly experiences without going within to reflect on how we feel about
our life and its meaning. It is only when we connect our inner and outer worlds that we can best grow
and evolve.
The manifestation process, also known as the creative process, begins by creating a clear inner vision of
what we would like to co-create with the Universe. Then the manifestation process takes over and
makes our vision a reality.
At least that is the way it is supposed to work. Sometimes our great and wonderful visions do not
manifest. Why? If we live only on the outer end of life’s spectrum, which is the world of experience, we
will keep manifesting what has always been until we introduce a new thought from the inner end of the
spectrum. Contrarily, if we stay entirely within our inner world, we will never experience the other end
of the spectrum: our new thoughts as a reality.
Trying to manifest without the feedback of experience, is like trying to drive a car without touching the
steering wheel, pushing on the accelerator or looking out to see where we are on the road. Feedback
also lets us know when our vision has missed something important or our fears, other emotions and
beliefs are blocking the manifestation process.
Spiritual practices and techniques allow us to connect our inner and outer worlds and bring them into
alignment and harmony. This synergy and clear communication along our inner and outer spectrum
empowers us to live our lives out loud in full Technicolor!
Love and light,
Rev. Pam
