Shoshin. A concept in Zen Buddhism meaning Beginner’s Mind. It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level.
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This is the holy grail of Zen - in awareness form rather than an object to obtain. It is on par with “mushin” or “no mind.” Domo arigato gozaimasu Sensei Suzuki-san for this one.
And like the holy grail, it is fantastic, fantastical, fantasy. It is impossible for a healthy human with a normal functioning brain to ever realize this is in a literal form on a permanent basis.
When I wake up in the morning, I quickly know where I am. Why? My brain registers this place and knows it. (Thank God!) I know where the bathroom is. I know how to adjust my precious shower for just the right amont of hot water - in all seasons. I know where my pantry is, where my dishes are, how cold the milk in the refrigerator will be if all is well.
When do I normally experience true beginner’s mind? One obvious example is when I travel to a place I have never been before. It can be uncomfortable, a little scary, and exhilarating. Everything I do is something new and an achievement of sorts. This is the allure and reward of travel. Just getting to a desired destination and finding a safe place to sleep for each day is such an accomplishment. And for my human senses? New, new, new - beginner’s mind.
And I am always so happy to get back to my familiar home again after a good spell of travel beginner’s mind.
Not literal, not a thing that can be artificially induced in one’s self, but an expression of how it feels.
