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Emptiness

[Photo: Opening into Emptiness by SriHarsha PVSS]


If your mind is empty, it is always ready for anything;
it is open to everything.

In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities;

in the expert's mind there are few.
-Shunryu Suzuki

I don't necessarily agree with the last part of the quote..."in the expert's mind there are few." Everyone, including experts, can always create new possibilities.

"The pedant is he who finds it impossible to read criticism of himself, without immediately reaching for his pen and replying to the effect that the accusation is a gross insult to his person. He is, in effect, a man unable to laugh at himself."
The Freud Dude

Tony, I believe you are interpreting the quote too literally. Indeed, everyone, including experts, can always create new possibilities. It is the expert that regards himself as an expert that is blocked by his own knowledge. The mark of a true expert is one who is wise in his field, and yet constantly recognizes and acknowledges how little he truly knows. Such an expert retains "Beginner's Mind" and can create the possibilities you speak of.

Mike - thanks for the clear explanation!

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