Turtles are, to many Chinese, symbols of strength, longevity, and prosperity. So, its appropriate to find them in Chinese Park (see below). The turtle exhibit at Chinese Park boasts over 1300 live turtles and most seem to be well- engaged in the pursuit of long life, and prosperity...and they seem strong enough. Nevertheless, the pressure of being a cult-symbol can get to you. There was this one who seems to have just had enough for one day. But I ask you -- how does this fit the image? Does the tough shell represent strength to withdraw when one has had enough of prosperity and fame? And then there was another one that was sociable enough until I pulled out the camera at which time there was a remarkable withdraw into the shell with squinting eyes -- nothing could coax a reappearance. Paparazzi shyness...flashterriphobia? And here's the opportunity for you Terappin fans -- not one item from UMD in the collectables exhibit.
