SIMPLE CLAY DISHES
Survivors of Downsize
by Ann Harris
A few simple clay dishes, vessels formed of the earth, available in a million forms, remain in my kitchen cupboard. This special, small collection has survived every downsize, every move I’ve made. They remain to prepare and share food and snacks, and be part of my life as it continues. The coffee mugs hold hot chocolate for sharing quiet conversations, morning coffee and chicken soup for healing. A white hand-crafted perfectly shaped mug made in a pottery class by a member of the Centennial Center staff has been with me for just three years. A petite beige and white jar with lid intricately designed by a pottery student on the Berea College campus in Ohio holds pennies from my wallet. Oh yes, my crafted motley beige glazed creamer and sugar set sits on my kitchen counter. There’s a large heavy pottery mixing bowl from lovely Helen, Dad’s second wife. Every time I take it out of the cabinet, it transmits the solid strength of her presence, and I’m warmed by the memory.
These few clay items, survivors of the decades, give me much pleasure as I recall their meaning and presence since joining my household. As I now mostly write about events at Villa Maria where I live, I celebrate their beauty and usefulness at social gatherings where stories and music surrounds me. Through the centuries of time – from cave, kiva, home, tent, banquet, wedding, birthday party, church hall, under the shade tree or by a stream – the simple clay dish and its relatives are friends that shape our days, adding to the pleasure of our stories.
I delight in including my newly made dish into the collection!