The Wisdom of the Turtle: Home, Housing, and Life Lessons

When my daughter Amy was five years old, she begged us for a pet. Sympathetic to the fact that Amy’s allergies kept her from a furry companion that she could snuggle and cuddle, but understanding how important a pet was to her, we settled on a pet turtle. Little did I know that this little creature would have more of an impact on me than it did on my five-year-old. 

As an Air Force family, we had to move every few years to new and often strange places. That little box turtle, a seemingly simple pet, became a profound source of inspiration. Even before I understood the concept of totems or spirit animals, I was captivated by this creature who carried its home on its back. I grew to appreciate the symbolism of the turtle: stability, longevity, and protection. I would joke with my family and friends that I was that turtle, always carrying my home with me. Of course, sharing my admiration for turtles had its consequences – because I ended up being gifted with a veritable army of stone, ceramic, glass, and plush turtles which ultimately had to be packed and unpacked with every move!

My last major move was back to Albuquerque, when my husband Matt retired from the Air Force. Here we established what he lovingly referred to as his “box home,” the one he will only “leave in a box.” As we settled into our new and forever home, I was struck by the realization that I would no longer need to carry my home on my back. Since then, I have culled much of my turtle collection and replaced them with an abundance of, well, cats. But I am forever grateful to the turtle for teaching me that home is where you decide to be, where you decide to put down roots. Turtles still, and always will, serve as an important reminder of that life lesson.

Around the same time, I devoted myself to nonprofit work full-time and my professional life took a turn towards housing and homelessness. I ended up joining the Supportive Housing Coalition of New Mexico, and I was instantly, irrevocably, changed. I saw the human face of homelessness - the sheer heartbreaking courage it takes to rebuild a life after it has been shattered. I witnessed the transformative power of a simple act: providing a home. I was impacted immensely by the passion and dedication of those who are advocating daily on behalf of the unhoused and the remarkable stories of the people we served. Housing First became my mantra, and I fully believe in the power that stable housing has for changing people’s lives.

Eventually, I found my way to Sol Housing. As I prepare for retirement, I am deeply honored to have spent these remaining professional years in an organization committed to building homes. Not just physical structures, but places of belonging, quality, and hope. Joining Sol during the pandemic presented unique challenges: navigating the mission, my role, and building connections with my team through the virtual landscape, all while diving headfirst into the complexities of affordable housing development, funding applications, and more. During my tenure, I have had the privilege of organizing multiple groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings, spearheading the organization’s 30th anniversary event, and shepherding the team through the uncomfortable but ultimately rewarding rebranding process.

But I learned something valuable during those milestones and challenges. I found another kind of home - my work home. My time with Sol has given me the gift of deep and lasting friendships that have made me not just a more effective storyteller and advocate, it’s made me a better person. What a blessing it has been to witness and be part of Sol’s unwavering commitment to the mission of creating exceptional housing, household stability, and vibrant communities. I am constantly inspired by the deep knowledge and unparalleled skills of my colleagues, who tirelessly work to create housing that is not only affordable but also safe, high quality, and beautifully maintained. More importantly, their work is always centered on the residents, the very heart and soul of Sol’s vision: a future where everyone can create community, connection, and joy in a home of their choice.

It has been an immense source of pride for me to be part of an organization that creates housing that is accessible to so many.  While I have never experienced a life without a place to live, I have learned after many years of carrying my home with me on my back, the joy that comes with finding a place to put down roots, a place that feels safe, a place to grow. I wish that sense of peace for everyone, because everyone deserves a home.

As I look forward to this next chapter of retirement, I urge you to further the mission and vision of Sol Housing by supporting its efforts to bring more housing that is affordable to Albuquerque. The feeling of home is unparalleled, and I encourage you to advocate for that security for all however and whenever you can.

As for me, I will carry the enduring spirit of the turtle with me, a reminder of inner strength and the importance of finding and creating a sense of belonging. I will always cherish the home I have found here at Sol Housing and will always be a champion for housing. I am grateful for being part of this incredible community and the privilege of sharing its vital story.