What to do with this maple?

[SquatJar]

I'm impressed, those roots actually look ok for not being cut back in 10 or so years

[shibui]

Why would this tree die now? There are more than enough roots to keep this one happy.

[greg27]

I'm impressed, those roots actually look ok for not being cut back in 10 or so years

I did take the photos from the most flattering angle - I'll need to make the photographed angle the front for sure.

Why would this tree die now? There are more than enough roots to keep this one happy.

Thanks Neil, it was your photos of how hard you cut back trident roots that gave me the courage to cut these back as much as I did.

[Akhi]

That's some really bold rootwork I can never get myself to do that. But as Neil rightly points out no reason it should die. Good job on getting there nice little maples now.