One of the six steps to Zen Buddhism from Professor Robert Waldinger is adopting a beginner's mind, which is crucial for a happy life.
Reflecting on this, I remembered how joyful and carefree I felt as a child. I wondered why I couldn't feel that way as an adult. I realized that my past experiences, thoughts, and beliefs were holding me back from happiness. Embracing a beginner's mind was the key for me.
I used to work so hard for money that I lost all my free time to enjoy my artistic side. One day, while browsing a platform where people share their painting lessons, I realized I wanted to reconnect with my artistic self. Since then, I believe that painting is a must have activity for me, even just a few hours per week, but it will make my life feel much more alive and fulfilled.
This relates to a beginner's mind because it allows you to me with passion and joy. Life is always changing, like water in a stream, and every moment is unique and won't come back. So, I choose to live each day with joy and love in everything I do. I choose to love what I do and do what I love. Like a kid who follows their true feelings and sees everything as a unique and irreplaceable treasure.
As we grow older, we mimic how adults "should" behave and in this, we somehow lose the kid! I'm so happy for you to be in deep touch with your inner kid back again and cherishing it! Really looking forward to your paintings and rooting for you partner! 😁