I am a Wood Turner

I am a Wood Turner
by Ken Rizza

The wood spins creating a blur
which becomes the canvas on which I paint;
it has no beginning or end, only limitless possibility.
No artist brushes here, only knives of steel
to create the image inside waiting to be freed.

Mystical in nature
I peel back the layers of time
that have been implanted
by all this tree has known
to all who basked in its greatness.

As its secrets are revealed to me
with each passing revolution
I have to wonder:  
what lies within it next
that will shape its final destiny?

This amazing creation by God
has helped mankind since time began;
it matters not whether it is dead or alive.
Its usefulness is unfailing as it transforms
one phase of its existence to another.

How unselfish this gift of nature is!
With little reflection
one can marvel at and appreciate this manifestation.
One could hardly list all that a tree has done for thee.

Now in my hands
it makes its final journey
as my tool’s path is guided by its inherent beauty
manifesting itself with each passing revolution.
The final outcome will have no beginning or end.
It will be so much more than when I started
as a new purpose for its existence is created.

The human element embraces and gives deeper meaning
to the tradition of a wooden vessel.
“The Bread of Life” is not complete
unless served up in family heirlooms,
cherished for generations.

It is an awesome responsibility
to be part of the cycle of life
for one of nature’s greatest gifts to mankind.

I am a Wood Turner.