“The Phoenix and Turtle” is the name of a poem by Shakespeare, which I’ve never read, and neither have you. But for most of my life I’ve known the title, which always intrigued me. I thought “What would a turtle and a phoenix have to say to each other?”
Later I was told that “turtle” was an Elizabethan name for a turtle dove, so it’s actually a dialogue between two birds, one very ordinary and constant, the other a unique mythological beast, offering a singular and all-consuming experience. An analogy of two kinds of love. But it now occurs to me that my original conception could well apply to our current van issue.
Our trusty VW was a turtle, in the modern sense: a slow but dependable beast, loyally carrying us and our friends through the world. It dealt humbly and honorably with all kinds of obstacles, but had no defense against fire, to which it sacrificed its life.
But from the ashes of that fire, life is reborn. In Frankfurt last week we found our Phoenix: a used Ford transit custom high top van, with wheelchair access, equipped to comfortably carry 9 passengers through the next phase of our adventure.
Now we want to take the opportunity to thank all of you who are supporting us at this fiery turning point— with monetary or other assistance. Thank you!
With our phoenix we will continue our voyage, joyfully grateful for the opportunity to co-create a world in which the imagination can fly!
For those of you who haven’t yet made a contribution, but still have that intention, the numbers are:
account of “Associazione La Luna nel Pozzo” at
Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena
Via Martiri di Kindu, 94
Ostuni 72017 Italy
IBAN: IT86D0103079230000002241472
SWIFT code: PASCITMMOST
for La Luna nel Pozzo
Robert McNeer
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