The Potter and the Clay

Wow! What a week. By Friday evening both mind and body were exhausted. I wish I had paid closer attention in high school to my English teacher. Now I'm learning both Spanish and basic grammar.

Anyway, Saturday is here and time for a little fun and relaxation. Mark and Michelle took the Campbell family and us just outside of town to an area known for it's pottery. This is a family operation and the man in the photo began working as a potter when he was seven. He has been making pottery for 40 years now. His son seems to be following in his footsteps. I enjoyed watching the boy, because he new exactly what to do and never stopped working the entire time we were there. He is putting feet on banjo playing frogs.

Many of the pieces are made in parts and put together before they are fired. When he receives a large order from the shops in Tegucigalpa or San Pedro Sula, he is able to make 50 parts an hour. Of course he has a tender bringing him clay and taking away the formed  pieces, but I still find it amazing. Later they will paint some, glaze some and fire all of it. Some of the vases are taller than I am and very beautiful.

Some of the kids were allowed to try their hand at making a simple vase or cup. They agreed to fire what we made and will have them for us next week. They were all very kind and we appreciated them allowing us to visit.

As I watched the vase becoming a vase under the hands of the skilled craftsman, I couldn't help but think of the verses of scripture in which we are referred to as clay and God as the potter. Upon reflection, it certainly gives a different perspective on our lives and the "choices" we make.

Looking forward to a day of rest tomorrow and the SUPERBOWL! Yes, we will be able to watch the game. The boys were worried that we wouldn't be able to watch American Football here. The party starts at 5 pm at Tim and Julie's. Come on by if you're in the neighborhood. GO PATRIOTS!