​When reading this tale ("The Star Money," in European Fairy Tales Series, Vol IV), the main theme that I was struck with is that it is literally a lesson in Karma. Now, it might be instinctual to recoil at that word in an ancient European context as we consider it a foreign word native to Indian Hinduism. Of course, this is very true. However, an historical truth that many Westerners are oblivious to is that Europeans and Indian Hindus share a common linguistic and mytho-cultural heritage.

I go out meandering in a nearby nature park frequently. It allows me to ponder my thoughts, sort of meditate and gestate over things I've been reading and thinking, and often new insights come to mind triggered by what my canine companion and I encounter in nature. 

Sometimes connections are made, or new revelations are revealed. It can also be quite inspirational. This is where much of my poetry comes to me as well. 

Today our adventure with a turtle caused me to dwell deeply on aspects of fairy tales and our own journeys in life.