Yggdrasil was an enormous tree that connected the Nine Worlds of the ancient Norse world. The Tree of Life is another myth that spans several regions and ancient cultures. More recently, J.R.R. Tolkien had such a love of trees that they play major roles in his fantasy worlds. Trees have played such a vital role in civilization that most cultures throughout history have close ties to them. They can represent both life and death. The annual shedding of leaves and new growth in the Spring can symbolize rebirth.
If you think about it, none of this should be a surprise. Trees have supplied civilization with food, shelter, oxygen, and building materials. We have such a kinship with them that our own health can be linked to theirs. I love trees for many of the very reasons shared by those that have come before me. So, the irony is not lost on me that the source of my craft are the very things I cherish. However, what brings me comfort is the notion that what I make, I make to last. While trees may be a renewable resource, I still feel responsible to use the material wisely and not to waste it.
Our culture of limited use and disposal makes me pause. Like many, I have lived that way for many years. We buy things on an impulse and discard when it no longer suits our vanity. It’s easy to purchase a cheap piece of furniture made of particle board. Of course, we all know the lifespan isn’t but a few years. It starts falling apart, joints becoming loose. So we molt our old belongings and repeat the cycle again.
I have tried to reject this way of life as best I can. With my craft it is no different. I do my best to only use lumber from species that are not endangered. I do my best to make sure I use every scrap piece I can. I do my best to re-purpose and recycle what waste I can’t use. Most importantly, I do my best to make sure that I pay respect to the trees by building furniture in which they can live on and be admired for a long time.
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