But in the end it is not the extraordinariness of the teacher which perplexes, intrigues, and deepens the student, it is the teacher's utter ordinariness.
-- Trudy Dixon (Introduction)

Importance: Dixon’s quote highlights the power of ordinariness. This is a theme close to Suzuki’s heart. In a culture that values the extraordinary, this quote runs contrary to our cultural values. This focus on the ordinary can release us from the delusional messages of our culture and help us to value everything in our daily, ordinary lives.

In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, in the expert’s mind there are few.
-- Shunryu Suzuki (Prologue)

Importance: This quote highlights why a beginner’s mind is important. A beginner’s mind is naturally open, curious and intrigued with the unknown. It is not hindered by expectations based on past experiences. Because there are few if any experiences to draw from, the beginner does not know how to...