Morning Extraction

I drew the ceramic paring knife from its wooden magnetic block. On the oiled cutting board rested a ripe pomegranate, firm and heavy. Rather than cutting through the center and crushing the fruit, I scored four measured lines along its natural ridges. A gentle twist parted the sections cleanly along their fibrous seams without breaking a single aril. With the back of a small wooden spoon, I tapped the rind in steady cadence, letting the ruby seeds cascade into the white porcelain bowl below. Orderly, quiet, and complete.