THE WOOD SHOP

Linda V. just joined the Beanery Writers Group in Latrobe, Pa. This is her first submission. She writes in several different genres. Return to the Beanery Online Literary Magazine at ProBlogs.com/beanerywriters tomorrow night when her bio will be posted.

Standing in the doorway,
A pause before entering.
The smells of wood wafting the air and rising,
As eyes gazing upwards to the open emptiness.
Energies contracting and expanding.
Breathing rhythmically.
A place of sensation.
 A space to vision visions and dream dreams.
A portal to another world.
 
The art of wood sculpting comes alive.
 
Shavings of wood meticulously adorn the base, the
foundation, the floor.
And rafters, many/many/many yards high.
Both resemble the craftsman.
A grounded, stout stature with a lumbering gait,
Appearing larger than life.
Seemingly, reserved.
Underneath, paradoxically, a thunder and a feel of the sensual.
Like palms rubbing cherry wood.
Well carved and responsive.
 
Each has a legacy.
 
Naked trees stand as lumber;
Some stacked against walls, some resting in lofty compartments;
All awaiting resurrection.
Woodworking implements aligned in orderly array.
Selecting the medium appropriately,
Fore the wood will yield to the hands of the woodworker as the
seeds of creation are nourished.
 
The tools of the trade rewrite the story.
 
The tree’s energy lets go and surrenders to outside forces,
  Retaining its essence.
The ego softens as the rough edges are smoothed.
  
Herein life stands still.
Time is expressed in carved out moments.
The woodworking shop is a humble abode –
It is where the artisan belongs.
A place of value and of worth.
A haven for contentment.
 
A heart and soul are found residing,
Potential is fulfilled,
Life is redeemed,
And, Faith is restored.
 
The Woodman reigns proudly and shapes his existence.