Surprise! Awesome figured maple (I DID NOT EXPECT THIS!!!)

Here I am, working a huge figured maple log. It has some surprises hidden it it along the way, both good and bad. I demonstrate perseverance while cutting this log, and the results were worth it!
This was some of the most highly figured lumber I have ever cut. Along the way I encountered nails and metal scrap that was embedded in the log. Watch the whole video to find these hidden surprises.
Please like, comment, share, and subscribe if you like what you are seeing!

[@southernindianasawmill1367]

Look what happened today. 4 million views! WOW! A lot has happened since I posted this video two years ago. I never thought this video would encourage and influence so many people. Thanks everyone for your support and encouragement!

[@richardlee9624]

Q+qq++++qqqq++++2

[@stevengates4437]

Is that a nineteen 80s mizer?lol

[@rodneyfahy1607]

@@richardlee9624q2

[@lorenprice1960]

Thanks

[@treysnider1954]

Great job Great video. Get the metal detector

[@jked7463]

I am watching this because I am an architect. Understanding the incredible work people like you do, makes me appreciate the end result of our designs all the more. Also, knowing what is possible, how it's done & the limitations helps me do my work all the better. Beautiful work. Gorgeous wood. On top of that, you are very wise. We love to complain. Life these days are nowhere near as hard as the people before us had to overcome. Thank you.

[@robertinaust]

While I'm not among the youngest observers here I can easily still say that even at 70 I really get a kick out of gaining valuable inspiration from life's lessons from unexpected places and shared with wisdom from a student of life in such a telling and interesting way. Thanks mate

[@lamarjohnson6222]

Yes mister Miller appreciate you your message we need more men in this country with the message that you bring thank God for you may God keep you and may you stay motivated and love and peace to you and your family

[@miriammoore1261]

Your Philosophy of Life and your very good example of living it is why Your channel has become a favorite. GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

[@ChuckClarktx]

Fella, you are an oddity in an age of instant gratification, fast "food", and where narcissism is the norm. It is amazing to watch you craft timber into lumber as you answer to the grain of the wood and observing the response of the wood as it submits to the blade. A simple joy to watch. God bless you and yours.

[@LegendaryPuma1]

What a blessing to hear someone talk about the joys of hard work, and the benefits of perseverance and overcoming obstacles! May God bless your business.

[@kurtschatz]

A true artist that can see the depth of Gods nature. Looking at that figure brought back many a memory of my wood working. 70 years old now and don't have the strength any longer. I also have found many a log, some extent, and brought them back to life. YOUR GREAT

[@acelticwarrior]

I thank God for men like yourself. Glad I found your channel.

[@daviddecourcey6989]

I'm a wood worker, farmer, business man, husband, father, and above all, a Christian. The life lessons you speak of are more true and more honest , than found anywhere in today's world . Thank you for the wisdom and beauty that a sawyer commands and frees from the log.

[@bcm1567]

no one brought religion into this, not about that, its about what your made of and how you overcome adversity

[@gravityalwayswins1434]

I'm 65 and have been a professional residential carpenter since June 1973. Two things. Attitude is everything. You make the day good, it doesn't 'just happen'. Secondly, it isn't unusual to hear men singing on a construction site. Why? Because they are happy. A good attitude is everything. You make the day good, regardless of what comes your way.

[@Hercules718]

Robert Rowlands amen

[@altern8nrg]

Came for the wood and the saw... left with a true reminder of life wisdom. ❤

[@Bluegrassboy49]

I enjoyed your video and all the good words of wisdom. Young men especially need to hear you and your message. Thanks and keep sawmilling.

[@garyvanwagenen371]

At 76, I'm building my first personal shop. In the past I was lucky enough to use work in wood shops with their equipment but now it's up to me, Input from the internet is priceless.

[@zzyyxx123]

Thanks for posting. I'm 60 and sometimes think I'm too old to start something new. I know that is not true, but I just don't have the stamina I once did. Thank you.

[@JayMar-no5vy]

I am too old now (80 yrs old) and wish I had your attitude when I was young. I opted for college and a military career, however, if I could go back in time I would like to be you. Your message would do a lot of good among our youth today. They can learn from setbacks and plow forward to a wonderful future. Thank you.

[@bcm1567]

thank you for serving my brother in arms, did my time as well, just not a career

[@davedunn4285]

You are a great teacher and patient . A great example to young and old

[@johnclark6571]

I just watched this because I didn't know what a figured maple was. And learned a lifetime of information

[@DrewJacobson61]

You have greatly encouraged me! I’m watching this video from my hospital bed after having a heart attack. Needless to say I’m a little down. But watching this video and your comments on don’t give up has been very encouraging! Thanks man

[@Christystlouis]

Hope your doing better.b

[@franslangendonk6510]

My father was a Journeyman Saw Filer and eventually worked his way up to Mill Manager. He trained many apprentices. The Mill burned down and my parents wanted to stay in the community. Church fellows knew his skills and character. They found an opportunity to transfer his welding skill to the Tool and Die trade. He became a Die Prep Technician and began a new career in the Aluminum Industry. He worked his way up to Assistant Plant Manager. His boss was one of those original church fellows and became best friends. My father was the classic American Success Story. He came to America to find a better way to better himself and have more space for his family to grow. So did his friend/boss. My Dad was a great man. Your video and what you said about not giving up proved you are also truly great! You showed me how much you have in common with my Dad in interests, trade and character. It caused me to wax poetically LOL! My father loved making things with wood. Since he had access to all kinds of exotics as well as domestics, I learned to appreciate fine wood. Your presentation at end, wetting to show the grain, would've brought him to tears. He loved wood that much! It is gorgeous! Very best regards!

[@DV11b]

Well, now I know why this video has hit 4 million. Great message with and awesome product.

[@larrycooke4010]

I bought a shopsmith about 25 years back with more plans to try out,added a joiner , planer,a homemade bandsaw out of piywood and went to work .I can't believe the enjoyment I got enjoyment I got.

[@kennethholliday6806]

Great Daddy! You have very lucky Children. This is what "America" is about. You have a great message to today's youth! Thanks!!!!!

[@michaelreed9805]

This guy is good! Took his time and didn't waste any of the prime meat. great work man!

[@Deerslyr81]

4 million views in 2 years!! I’m going to watch this and head over and start watching the current stuff to see the difference and hopefully growth of your operation!

[@donwilliams169]

Your outlook on your work and life itself I think is spot on.and this comes from an older guy. so it's heart felt stand firm in your thoughts about life

[@monopinion8799]

You have so much wisdom and yet so young. Thank you for your words of reality.

[@charlottepatterson4576]

Life lessons to build character! Sir you are the real deal! We need more men in this world like you! Keep up the great work!

[@vjohnson2400]

I am a city girl and found your video purely by chance. However I found the whole process fascinating, good job.

[@Nontacticalboy]

Wow, you got flamed, spalted, quilted...gorgeous

[@syblejones435]

THANK YOU FOR THE WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND INSPIRATION!!!

[@janetsmart8083]

No that wasn't gross you were gross get a life and don't pick on Hannity he has more brains than you will never had. You have so much hatredbits not good for your system get a life you will never win with a republican we don't lie like you people full of lies look what you have as pres in the white house start thinking

[@matthewmccalister5594]

YOU ARE SUCH A BEAUTIFUL HUMAN!! Holy wow dude you really hit right in the feels with that speech in the middle. More of our youth need role models like you!

[@sharongunter7613]

2.7k HI. 1st time watching you work. Love the WAY every saw mills DOES THEIR WORK. I 💘 these you tube shows.. Wish I was much younger I would love to do this job or life work.. thank you.

[@OVTraveller]

Your video has demonstrated that instead of turning a so called useless log into firewood, it became a total winner by your inspired workmanship and positive attitude. If we value all natural resources like you did this log, the future looks a lot better. Thank you

[@deanmachinebodnaryk]

Thank you for putting stuff on y-tube that is worth watching, your outlook is refreshing!

[@ellinghoem1700]

This country is in good hands with fathers, husbands and dedicated hard workers like yourself. Life is hard, but a good attitude will help one through. Great video. Thanks for sharing. I do wood lathe work making bowls, platters and spheres. Recently I started using resin with the wood (hybrid spheres and small “river table” pieces). Some of those pieces that have voids are perfect candidates for those type of projects after the cut wood dries. Thank you again and God bless you and your family.

[@gispel7058]

Glad you said what so many are afraid to say. A very decent lifes lesson on the importance of overcoming obsticles without looking for excuses. Nothing wrong with doing your best. I know that in some circles if you are thr best at what you do.....it is often met with petty jealousy and spite.

[@harmon1286]

Yep,...beautiful wood for use both inside n outside a home or business. You are a ‘good man’, with exceptional tools..! I look forward to viewing your past vlogs as well as new features you produce.! Thank you..!

[@yolandacordero284]

Such good advice. I always tell my perspective student to tell them selves. I CAN, I WILL, AND I AM. It works everytime and it brings me joy when they finish and graduate. I also tell my self that in silence when dealing with difficult ppl or obstacles.

[@The1Catman]

there is a third class of folks watching. We admire the potential and the self motivated people we meet in this wonderful world. Keep rocking!

[@camilleriggan9555]

I so admire work ethic. You are indeed a wisdom filled young man!! Oh to have more men like you!! You oh will teach your children well.

[@marykersjes-matthews1525]

what about safty glasses

[@drzainnas]

My friend I salute you, and every word you have mentioned is a wisdom and this what is all life us about. Thank you for sharing your great work. God bless you, your family and lovely dogs too. Best Regards from ENGLAND UK 🇬🇧 👍👏😃

[@scottfranson4215]

I really did not expect,such a good moral story. I really needed to be encouraged by that today. I can use this video to get a Great Point across and they won’t know until their to far into it. (it’s worth it!). Your Great Quote . It will cool to see the final product.

[@southernindianasawmill1367]

Thanks for watching guys! Just a quick comment before I get asked a hundred times... Metal detectors only work to a certain depth of wood (about 6 inches), so even if I had used it, the first nail was 10" in to the log. Second, for gosh sakes, it's not everyday you hit a metal strap in the wood, so give me a break. Haha!

[@brianmacintosh3340]

Still was a beautiful log with with a surprise, Nicely cut.

[@MrThenry1988]

You could run the detector as you go along.

[@davidgraham2673]

First time viewer here. Very enjoyable video. I very rarely subscribe to a channel, but I subscribed to yours. I love your "Life Lessons" for younger viewers. Isn't it interesting that "Sweat of the Brow" guys like us understand the true value of hard work, goal setting, and a never give up mindset. Kudos, you've got a new fan.

[@donchristie420]

As someone who has run a bandmill, shit happens and bands are a lot cheaper than circular blades, so can be a little more “careless”

[@d.e303-anewlowcosthomebuil7]

You didnt show how you got the steel out. I would use a circular saw as the blades are cheaper, and they will cut steel, then maybe drill holes, and use a recipricating saw.

[@orionstar6747]

I was having (what I thought was) a hard day today, then I came across your video, and you gave me the answer I was waiting to hear...thats why God works in mysterious ways. God bless you and your family , stay safe, and well in these difficult times we are going through, you really are a blessed person. Thank you from the heart.

[@garrettpool9595]

Loved the moral of your story . Don't give up or In never compromise. God bless you.

[@paulmurphy2314]

If the world was full of people like you we would have no problems,

[@ljd8520]

Agreed Paul.

[@jfiosi]

Agreed!

[@carolynbrown524]

It's apparent you know your work and enjoy doing it. That's what makes work (and life) so enjoyable. Thanks for posting.

[@sewasewa6585]

Would it be worth it to invest in a good metal detector? I saw someone else always using a metal detector before cutting recycled wood.

[@dennisphillips6807]

GOD BLESS YOU, YOU ARE A GOOD EXAMPLE OF WHAT YOU SAY! BEAUTIFUL WOOD TOO!!

[@jorgecastro1894]

Nice cutting job, beautiful wood, no doubt, But God bless your little girl who brought you drinks!!!!

[@patriciamoody7858]

You have something that few people have.hard work never hurt anyone,when your little girl brought you a drink it showed you were a great family man as well. Great video,I enjoyed it.

[@ebhsbill]

It's a pity none of It was quarter sawn for guitar tonewood. You could have double or triple the value.

[@marionward5958]

You have to do what the customer wants, but I agree shame not put to better use.

[@selfaware114]

These boards are too heavy ....100 lb steel hay bails .... me 125 no problem. Next year me 150 bails 90 still no gloves .... no problem. Now 60 bails 75lbs. Me 290 no problem. Twine is for whiners.

[@tamaramayfields8710]

@@marionward5958 oyyooy

[@franciscoporras4461]

I don't know you brother, but I appreciate and recognize a great and honest person when I see one, your ability with sawing and life advice for people is what we need more of today, from here on out you have an avid student and friend from Athens, Tx. your friend Sgt Porras

[@carriyo]

I so appreciate your words, far more than the grain and beauty of the wood you cut. Thank you for sharing.

[@rlyman111]

Mr. Rizzo, San Juan HS, 1958 loved teaching wood shop and find the woods that were made for each other in a project. Loved the smell of wood. Thanks for the lessons.

[@aaronlord1927]

Thank You so much for the, “fix the problem and move on” part. I’ve been going through a rough time and I really needed that. Thank You!

[@GaryLane080157]

Gorgeous wood! Great attitude! I'm in love with wood as well. Your family is very blessed to have You! Keep being you and thank you for caring enough about us to share your wisdom!

[@Ipadmariquita]

Thank you ! I love the way you think and teach,you did an awesome job 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 God Bless you.

[@randybarnes6661]

Me and you buddy must be from the same era so glad too hear someone with the same philosophy about life and work and todays generation of kids they have no idea what hard work is glad to hear your trying to raise your kids ol school and how to use their hands for other stuff besides phones and video games thanks for the video buddy glad to know I’m not the only one left lol. TN Backwoods

[@emaildavidlehman]

I think your daughter is as excited as we are to see that beautiful wood!

[@pollygarland4715]

What a brilliant presenter! Not only a wonderful explanation of the process but the principles behind the way it can lead to an attitude to life. You’ve kept a 73-year-old Australian grandmother absorbed anyway!

[@williamsmith8164]

Vote trump 🇺🇸

[@robertferraro5048]

William Smith .

[@williamsmith8164]

Vote trump 🇺🇸

[@davidfinke8714]

I liked your comment about problem solving. I worked road construction most of my life and learned early on that once the shovel/machine breaks ground, something unexpected happens and you have to “solve the problem.” That was number one on my resume. (Retired now)

[@archieyanson2650]

Wow what a very sensible video shoot this is, the unexpected trouble that came out, the effort and energy spent, with all the advice and principles stated, You are an admirably rare ideal Man, husband, Daddy, uncle, brother and all the male superlative... ❤️❤️❤️God bless you and family

[@bournedelta04]

"I want them to know that when things happen, you don't blow up, and you don't get irritated--you fix the problem, and you move on." Well said. Earned my sub.

[@donaldtimmons7675]

Thank you Sir, Guts, Grits, Integrity, Knowledge, there is so much that goes into your artisanship! Being a wood worker myself I really appreciate your ability to convey your art!Bless you, thanks for sharing.Don

[@piratebands7286]

Brother, you said and showed it exactly. Never give up! The end of the day is the reward for that hard work you do.

[@mohammedyasin2675]

You're an inspiration, to a great deal of people, who listen to every word you utter! The moral, words of wisdom, about not giving up in life! May God Almighty bless you and your family with a faith, that will be successful for in Here and in The Hereafter. Aameen!

[@robertgrey6770]

Great video, I'm no woodworking genius just a humble retired motor mechanic but I loved your compassion to your trade thank you for sharing.

[@plumberman4u]

8min. You said "some of you watch this video cos you're sawyers yourself, some of you are new to saw milling etc. Well, I'm a plumber!!! and like the majority of viewers, we watch this because watching craftsmen (&women) work with skill & love for their trade, wether its wood/metal/stone or whatever is so much more enjoyable and relaxing than most crap dished out on the TV. Cool Vids. 😊

[@DresdenDragonSeeker]

That's the God's honest truth!

[@SerendipityIsMee]

This guy's is a hard ass worker! He gives me hope for the generation to come. You sir, are a good man! Keep up the great work!

[@BackToTheFutura]

I'm not really a woodworker of any type, but I do enjoy watching these kinds of videos. What I liked about yours, is your passion for what you do! Thank you for giving me an opportunity to enjoy, and even learn a few life lessons at the same time! I wish you a lifetime of success.

[@dwightwheeler6806]

I watched this video, and I have to say you are a good man, and you are right when you say work is challenging, the best part of any job big or small is standing back and looking at the job you just did and knowing you created this masterpiece, it is very rewarding, great job.

[@geekfreak618]

Love the life lessons too! Beautiful wood. Seeing the grain revealed as I routed my slabs smooth from rough hand cut chain sawing is what got me hooked on wood working.

[@larrygarrett9043]

I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy watching your videos! Your “Life Lessons” are absolutely invaluable to our youth! There are also a few people of our “older generations” that can also learn a few “life lessons” from you as well! May God continue to bless and guide you on your life’s journey! Amen!

[@davidbarnett4483]

This guy speaks the truth about life experiances.Well done with your perseverance

[@pheonixaerialphotography8749]

I am a woman from Canada who just bought her first handsaw, definitely a beginner. Your video was amazing, and so is your message. I could see it was a lot of work, but it's very relaxing to watch you slice that log like butter. Thanks for posting.

[@jldossey45]

You are a great philosopher as well as an experienced Sawmiller. I spent many years in Batesville Indiana and at one time I worked with Dan Tekulve, one of the founders of Wood Mizer. I have been gone from there for over 30 years, but I was very proud to see the quality of advice you were offering to young people. I live in Cincinnati Ohio now and my name is John Dossey. Thank you for such an interesting video.

[@flipperdale51]

Great message. I think everyone has a passion for something productive; it's just a matter of finding it, and sticking with it.

[@gastaskforce]

So true, every job is completed one step at a time, adjusting, correcting and learning as you go. Nice job Matt

[@cassiemfataar6420]

hi its not dificult to see where your old school norm and ethic brings you, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. Youngsters of today can learn a lot from you.Thanks.

[@marcopinheiro2490]

Beautiful message, man. You obviously take great pride in your work, and find great joy in what you do. Thank you for sharing the video, and thank you for the inspiring words.

[@jeffl7581]

I agree with you whole heartily and its so wonderful to watch a professional at his work, man he knows his job

[@Jointman3]

I very much enjoyed the topic and seeing you perform your craft. As well as your statements about wanting to teach your kids to be able to deal with adversity and applying those lessons into whatever we face. Good job man!

[@TomSteele93]

15:44 God bless you sir. I still recall rounding off head bolts on an engine in a tight engine compartment. I didn’t know what to do. My dad got out a chisel and a hammer and we slowly chopped some of the head bolts off and got others to loosen and spin. Fast forward a few years later I was in college and rounded off some bolts on an axle. I would have been lost... but I thought back to that moment with my dad. Over the years I have learned to tackle problems with that same attitude. There’s always a way to deal with a problem if you are willing to roll up your sleeves and tackle the problem with hard work, common sense and a positive attitude.

[@mickwalsh8136]

Just like to say,you are one grounded, wholesome guy,well done and good luck with all you do

[@tomnotebaart9086]

I've got a 1993 LT40 (non-hydraulic). I had the mouse nest in the control box that I saw in a different video of yours, and had to replace all the switches and electronics inside. I've cut through numerous nails, bullets, even a porcelain insulator for an electric fence. While I hate when that happens, you are right - the game is to beat the log! I haven't sawed for quite a few years, but now I've restored the saw from mouse damage, and ready to get back to it. Watching your videos has renewed my interest and excitement. I love seeing what sawing lumber reveals about the beauty of wood (but wish I had hydraulics!).

[@loisanderson3283]

You are a good guy. We need more in this world like you. Love you sound advice.

[@geograph1000]

I share your appreciation for this beautiful timber and may I add, that is a beautiful machine too, nice vid thank you

[@gerggbergr8976]

I've been blessed in loving my work as well, I'm a woodworker of 37 yrs. I agree with your assessment of the I'm a victim era. enough! lifes to short.oh by the way that's some beautiful maple. great work.

[@craigzirkle9079]

Thank you I am a 53 yr. old male stroke survivor of 7 years and am about to start my 3rd round of outpatient therapy I was feeling nervous and somewhat doubting myself but your attitude was what I had when I first was hospitalized. Thank you for those words of re encouragement. No that is not my real picture when I opened that account my wife at the time was filing for divorce and anninimitty was a utmost requirement she has since past and I simply just have not changed it. My apologies. thanks again though awesome video I wish I had the physical ability to perform what seems to be such a rewarding art that you have acquired and seemed to have a well foothold of and am moving on to mastery. Best of luck and one thing I was taught many years ago, observe, adapt and overcome. Thank you Sir.

[@happymack6605]

Bless your soul, sir! I'd been grumpy all afternoon until this. Great video!

[@johnniecaldwell1130]

I agree with you wholeheartedly!! The world around us doesn’t understand & may not even comprehend what you’re saying!! Our generation grew-up not knowing what we would do but only wanting the best for our families, we personally sacrificed & understood that the only way we would ever become successful is by grounding our self and to build our character through hard work/life lesson!! My heroes are real people like yourself, not the ones we see on TV!!! I admire you and what you’re doing!! I would also like to Thank You for taking two of the most valuable asset we have Time & Knowlegde, then sharing you share it with those-of-us willing to take the time to watch your videos!!!!!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 Individuals like yourself deserve the best and I wish the best for you!!! Thx JC™

[@frankchebat6600]

I really enjoyed watching you do what you really Love doing you are very professional and a very good hearted man Two thumbs up Brotherman I hope there would be a lot more people like you your d best

[@djw6850]

Sage advice in this video! There are many inspiring, yet unintentionally misleading, video creators out there that edit out the struggles and hardships that are part of the process. Not many people talk about the importance of patience, work ethic and learning from adversity. Each job provides an opportunity to, not just be better at your trade, but to be a better person. Thank you Southern Indiana Sawmill guy for imparting some wisdom!

[@dennismurray8631]

DJ W - YUP, ALL that said, no way could accomplish this... w/out Canine assistance! 🐶

[@SomeBuddy777]

The Re-veal shows the beauty that nature instilled, and the artwork that was born!

[@davechapman7735]

well that was a breath of fresh air to watch. I knew nothing of milling but you are certainly a master of your trade, I play a Fender strat with a beautiful maple neck and now I know how it came about. I great vid and thanks very much for sharing. very best wishes from NZ

[@seniorLu48]

That is one hell of a great attitude that should be applied on almost all that we do and no matter what kind of work we do. And success comes in so many forms, I have one little simple saying when things get in my way, "Sometimes we just have to but our head down and go to work". It's pleasing to hear a young person do and say the things you discribe. Gracias, highly enjoy your video.

[@leannemacdonald5478]

Thanks showed my son, nice to see mentors at work

[@lucymaunder95]

I love the dog overseeing your work . Great . He is a star. So are you.

[@philmacgregor1374]

I've worked with wood all my life and enjoyed the feel and smell of wood and never thought it was hard just enjoyable. .young people got to find work they feel good at and challenges their soul...

[@michaelmonaco8127]

You are one hellofa good guy with the great attitude . I wish more people were like you .. Keep up the good work.

[@hectorrodriguez9565]

Tank you for the video and wise words, much appreciated. God bless you and family and of course your dogs 🐕

[@shirleygates1536]

Was worth watching. Love it. Beautiful grain in this tree. Loved it so intertaining.

[@lesgill6204]

COUNT ME IN, a joy to see and listen.

[@paterpull]

I love that move you made flipping that one blade into a small coil. Nice job!