Applying Beginner’s Mind with James Valentini

Shunryu Suzuki wrote, “In the Beginner’s Mind there are many possibilities, in the expert’s mind there are few.” Possibilities are presented to us in every experience, and using the framework of a Beginner’s Mind means consciously working to see those possibilities.

This spring, join James Valentini, Dean Emeritus of Columbia College and Professor of Chemistry, for a series of dinner seminars on Beginner’s Mind and its academic, personal, and professional applications. This series, co-sponsored by Columbia Religious Life, will convene in Earl Hall beginning this February.

Please RSVP using the links below, and stay posted for updates. Thank you!

Schedule

Tuesday, February 13 at 6 PM | Beginner’s Mind: SeEing Possibilities in Success and Failure

This evening, Deantini will lead a small-group discussion on using Beginner’s Mind to move past the dichotomy of “success” and “failure” at Columbia University and beyond.

Tuesday, March 19 at 6 PM | Challenging Our Convictions through Beginner’s Mind

This evening, Deantini will lead a small-group discussion on using Beginner’s Mind to identify, question, and refine our most deeply held values.

Monday, April 15 At 6:30 PM | Beginner’s Mind in the Face of HatefUl Ideas

For the final session of the series, Deantini will lead a small-group discussion on overcoming interpersonal and intellectual conflict through Beginner’s Mind. Please note that we will be meeting at the Dodge Room in Earl Hall this week.