Be a Beginner

"You can learn new things at any time in your life if you’re willing to be a beginner. If you actually learn to like being a beginner, the whole world opens up to you."
-Barbara Sher

Remember when you were young and everything was new and exciting? When you couldn't wait to learn and understand? When was the last time something grabbed your attention that way? We live in a world of information. It comes at us 24/7 from dozens of sources. I've seen the commercial for a fast phone - "That was so 24 seconds ago." Obviously, it is to advertise the speed - but isn't that sometimes our attitude? We already know that. There's nothing new there. We've seen it, done it, got it.

We are missing the simple joy of simply BEING - of observing, taking it in, letting it just simmer. Nothing is required. We don't have to DO anything. There are no screens to watch, no buttons to push, no links to travel next. This weekend try a simple exercise. Get outside somewhere and just experience and observe whatever is going on around you. Don't overthink it or talk about it - simply take it in. Notice whatever comes to mind. If your mind wanders away simply bring it back. Let us know what you discover.

Is there something new you are interested in? Try learning from that child like place of new and exciting. What do you need to let go of to get there? We hear the Zen concept of emptying your cup. The Bible talks about not putting new wine into old wine skins. What do you need to empty out in order to take in something new? How can you shift your mindset from already knowing, to anxiously anticipating brand new thoughts, creativity, and possibilities?

Have you noticed the abundant use of the words "new" and "simply"?  They are the recipe for a shift, a direction change, and mind-opening thoughts and experiences. Start at the beginning, with a beginner's mind, and the whole world will open up to you.

Laus Deo,
Beth