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In a message dated 8/8/2002 12:28:16 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
PSoroosh@... writes:
> Frank Smith says that when some is engaged in real learning, that they won't
>
> even realize they are learning - that the experience is not at all like
> that
> of college students cramming for exams where you certainly KNOW you are
> "learning."

Dear Pam,

I think that is true.

I make a living (if you can call it that) playing drums, and it remains a
lifelong goal to improve at it, and I must say that there is a zen aspect to
learning and improving in anything -- at least in my experience. However, I'm
not sure quietness and peace are always the inner signs that learning is
going on. At least not for me.

That is, usually you think you suck, and are playing horribly, and it
wouldn't cross your mind that you are learning. Instead you think you gotta
go home and practice -- the assumption being that we learn during practice
(study). Other times you're bored stiff, but still taking things seriously
and doing your best not to simply go through the motions; you try to make the
common, uncommon. Other times -- very rare times -- everything comes together
and you're in the zone and playing wonderfully.

I'm afraid to say that those latter moments are to be indulged in prudently.
For when you think you're doin' it, chances are you aren't! And this is the
zen. Bummer. And when you're struggling, and reaching, and ... failing! ...
that is when the learning is going on and you're actually making great
progress.

Don't get me wrong, we should indeed glory in glorious moments, but then we
should thank God for them and move on, else we might make glorious moments
our goal rather than improving.

Learning also means forgetting, but having been transformed in the process.
Imagine what we'd be like if we remembered and had at hand everything we've
learned. What bores. We'd never be invited to dinner parties!

The idea of learning and progress being a struggle gives America's political
and cultural issues (among other things) a new light, for while we obsess
over whatever it is making the news (kidnappings, corporate scandals,
POLITICS IN EDUCATION), and we think we're headed for Hell in a hand basket,
it's quite possible that we're making great strides toward humane
civilization instead. But don't quote me on that, I'm no guru or philosopher.

Sincerely,

Bob


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