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MP3

Throwing Pot

It is said that the wet slap

of the potter's hand upon a sphere of clay

sets the breath of life in it.

That the clay must be drawn downward

then pulled upward eleven times

before it finds its center upon the wheel.

That the firm open handed, loose-lock

of palm and fingers surrounding it,

urging it upward in the eleventh pulling is its birth crowning.

That the clay knows more about the potter

than the potter knows of the clay.

That on days when there is love in the potter's heart

the throw of a pot is a wet sweet kiss and warbled whisper.

That on days when there is pain in the potter's heart

the throw of a pot is a wearisome wobble of off-centered thought.

That when truth comes to her crucible

and the pot is handed into the fire

there is no telling

if she will be taken into purpose

or into pieces

or how the smoke will be written

into her glaze.

© 2000 Dan Kantak

The Navaho Cedar flute

in the background of the Mp3

is a cherished gift by a dear friend.

Dan