Always Have a Beginner’s Mind

Photos by Stefani Capizzi

Jude is a Healing Arts instructor, and compassionate human being that has been a beloved part of River Arts community for years. She teaches workshops, clay classes and is a frequent host to our sip n’ slurries. Stay tuned to our programming schedule to sign up for one of her lovely classes!

Each Thursday afternoon, I open the door to the Recovery Center, set up my table in the community room, layout my pottery tools, then unwrap a block of clay. During the two hours, I am there, I receive a gift. I am in the presence of participants who are curious and willing to risk trying something new: creating a mug, or bowl, or candle luminary in clay. The gift I receive from the participants is a reminder; to always have a beginner's mind—a Zen Buddhist practice. With a beginner’s mind, we are in the presence of possibility and not judgment.

Yes, we are creating in clay. We are also creating an environment where laughter and conversation and community are nourished. 

This past Thursday, I returned to the Recovery Center carrying their finished pieces. From a slab of clay, a few tools, a rolling pin, and final glazing, four pottery pieces graced our table. While the participants examined their handiwork, I saw delight and amazement in their eyes. “Wow,” was a repeated exclamation as they held and turned their pottery in their hands. 

The focus of creating releases us from our mischievous mind that can obsess in an endless loop and settles us into the present moment—this is the true gift of creating. This is the gift of always having a beginner’s mind.

-Jude Prashaw | December 2021