December 3, 2012

Blacksmith
Chama, New Mexico

As we roam this planet, we are constantly in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds us. But even more inspiring are the people whose paths we cross. We pulled the Roamer off the road to make a sandwich when I noticed a sign across the way: "Made in Chama! Not in China!" Intrigued, I wandered across the road and took a photograph. A man, who could have been the Marlborough Man, was standing in the doorway watching me. I struck up a conversation and he told me he was a blacksmith. I asked if it was okay to go into his shop and look around and he said to go right ahead. He makes beautiful hand forged knives, furniture, and sculptures out of old horse shoes. He graduated from art school and worked in the corporate world until his spirit was nearly crushed. He decided to reconnect to his childhood passion and become a blacksmith. He makes his living selling his creations out of two old trailers on the side of the road.
Steve joined us and we shared stories for about an hour. Curtis' story is one of survival and an indomitable spirit. He came back from a serious car accident after dying three times. When he recovered, he discovered he had new abilities that he'd never had before. He's had more struggles than one person should have to bear (financial, health, family) but he's always bounced back. He ought to be cynical but he's one of the most open people I've ever met. He's convinced that there are no coincidences. Things happen for a reason. Our brief encounter with Curtis left an indelible impression on both of us. He's right...there are no coincidences.

The blacksmith shop

Raw materials

Curtis Green, Blacksmith
"There are no coincidences."