In the study of Aikido, one of the principles that has always been emphasized to me is Shoshin. Literally, this means "beginner's mind". The opening words of Suzuki Roshi's Zen Mind Beginner's Mind puts it this way: "In the the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few".
Studying this concept in the dojo means avoiding the trap of "oh, I've done this before. I know it." While it is definitely true that familiarity and practice refine technique, what shoshin addresses is the state of the mind as it proceeds through each moment. Being present and alive in this very moment, and giving yourself fully to that moment is the true practice of shoshin. Making supper, answering the phone, using the washroom; each moment encountered is the precious and unique activity of your life.
As I get ready to go back to school, there is much activity. My children are starting a new school, my Nidan test is approaching, and soon the Amherstburg Zen Meditation Group will be opening. So many things continually unfold before me as I live my life. How could I see each moment as anything other than vibrant and unique? Yet, when my children are arguing, or I get irritated by people, the conditioned attitude of "oh, not THAT again!" can come up instantly. Note what I am saying here. When I deal with my children or my co-workers, I don't ignore what I know about them. I don't pretend that there is no history. Rather my goal is to avoid acting like it is a rerun.
I may know the past. I may conceive of a possible future. However, the only moment I can act in and affect is now. Fully present in this moment, I seek to act freely. Not shackled by the past, not hesitant about the future. Though I may consider the past and weigh the future possibilities, when the time comes for action, it unfolds freely, as a joyous outpouring of my life's energy. (even when that moment is cleaning out the litter box)
I look forward to these next months. There are many possibilities; not just because of major happenings, but because I am beginning to see more and more that this endlessly unfolding moment is fresh, alive and always in my senses.
