I was wondering how you would handle this defect This defect about 2 1/2" long about 1 " wide believe soft maple I would like leave it but with 1/2 side it might just come through the other side of the bowl
That definitely looks like a bark inclusion to me.....most likely caused by an injury to the tree at some point.
You can fix it with clear epoxy.
The bowl MUST be seasoned to stable moisture content.
Bring the surface to the best "tool finish" you can, prior to any sanding.
Tape around the inclusion, so that the application of epoxy is limited to just that area. Push the epoxy into the bark and crevices with as much pressure you can with your thumb and fingers. (use disposable gloves)
After the epoxy dries, take off the excess epoxy above the level of the surrounding wood. This is done off the lathe with (preferably a 2" disc) at about 150 grit.
Proceed on the lathe, using your normal procedures for sanding.
I have a burl bowl with a large patch of bark and rot that has been repaired this way out in the shop right now. It hasn't been sanded yet, but the tape has been removed. Let me know if you'd like to see it, and I'll try to get you a picture of it......
ooc