Source: Barbara Pearson, 785-532-6927, bpearson@k-state.edu
Photos available. Contact media@k-state.edu or 785-532-6415.
News release prepared by: Katie Mayes, 785-532-6415, kmayes@k-state.edu

Friday, Feb. 13, 2009

The trappings of turtles:
K-STATE COUNSELOR'S TURTLE COLLECTION BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

MANHATTAN -- When she holds the small aqua-green turtle dish, Kansas State University's Barbara Pearson is taken back to the warm, blue waters of Hawaii. She feels peaceful, relaxed, centered. She remembers the trip five years ago she took to the island with her sister -- a trip about family, rebirth and renewal.

"The turtle holds great symbolism for me," Pearson said. "It reminds me of peace, patience, steadfastness and tranquility."

All are qualities she tries to incorporate not only into her life, but impart to others as a counselor to K-State students with mental health issues.

In her relaxed, low-lit office in the English/Counseling Services Building, Pearson has more than a dozen different turtles, including a trio of small, brightly colored turtles from Mexico; an aqua- and silver-colored turtle bracelet made by a student; a clear, glass turtle-shaped candleholder from a secret Santa; an earthy-colored turtle magnet stuck to her desk; and lots of other ceramic renditions of the iconic reptile.

"The placement of the turtles in my office brings me tranquility and peace as I go through the day," Pearson said. "Many students notice the turtles and bring their own stories and significance about them. They often say the turtles are a comfort to them when they are here."

Pearson said that the turtle is a popular symbol in many cultures. In Native American mythology, she said it's linked to stories of creation. Numerous folk stories, like about the tortoise and the hare, represent the turtle as steadfast and patient. In Hawaii, the turtle stands for family, which is something Pearson says is very dear to her. It seems fitting, then, that her collection began with that "sisters trip" to Hawaii.

Little did she know when she returned to work with that single dish that she was about to become a collector. People she knew from all walks of like just started bringing them in.

Today, most of Pearson's collection is on the small coffee table in her office. She says that her clients, co-workers and students alike are drawn to the turtles, feeling a need to pick them up and hold them. As a counselor, that works to her advantage.

"They give people something to commune with and talk about and have something in common," Pearson said. "Everyone can create their own significance for the turtles."

The purpose of therapy, Pearson said, is to find a different way to be in the world. The turtle, which is known for its resilience and adaptability, can be symbolic of that journey.