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That's burl, dude...

“That’s burl, dude, just saying,” has to be said with a slight upward head nod and a lot of cool attitude.

Now, I must admit that I had not heard the word “burl” used like that until a few nights ago.  We were with some friends who are from Colorado, and it was a phrase they used, kind of like “gnarly, dude.”  As we talked, we all agreed that a burl on a tree is really what life sometimes feels like.

gnarly, exquisite burl
burls are lumps, knots and warty looking growths probably caused by injury or a fungal disease

Wow, that’s a lovely image to float around in your head, like an annoying song that gets stuck in your brain for days and days.  Eventually, though you embrace the tune as your fave.

Life is full of unexpected rough, ragged junk, but not all junk needs to be carted off to the nearest dumpster; which is kind of the case with burls.  Because of the disfiguration, strong, intricate, mind-boggling patterns grow in the wood.  Burls are appreciated and crafted into startling pieces.

I guess it’s all in how we view the stuff that comes our way, and it will come our way.  Burls create character, uniqueness and strength…just saying, dude.

peace, love … burl ~ Missy

If you have been mildly amused, challenged or inspired by what you have read, please pass on my blog to a friend, colleague, family member or even random acquaintance.





Comments

  1. Wildlife Art by SylNovember 15, 2013 at 5:56 PM

    Yes, burls are necessary in our lives, but can turn into things of beauty as God intends

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Missy ANovember 17, 2013 at 8:18 PM

      I'm guessing that there are quite a few on the trees in your area...are they something you could have sliced and painted on? Just kind of thinking out loud, wondering?

      Delete
  2. sewsavyNovember 16, 2013 at 7:38 AM

    Great post Missy. I learned something new today. Had no idea how burl wood was formed, only that I love the look of it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Missy ANovember 17, 2013 at 8:19 PM

      I do too. Lonny has worked with wood for so many years, that I have a great appreciation for the patterns that form - so interesting and amazing! Have a great trip ... and Happy Thanksgiving.

      Delete

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