Karma and Change

By Gunaratna Sarika©

Karma: Wow! It is quite simple on one hand (e.g. what goes around comes around), but it actually goes to the very heart of every action, thought and perception we experience. In this sense, whether or not we are aware of this karmic influence is irrelevant. The process of cause and effect, whether good or bad, continues in this continuum of birth, life, death, and rebirth. This cyclic existence continues on and on.

But all is not lost. We can actually put a positive spin, if you will, on the outcome. Since positive thoughts and actions cause happy reactions, it only makes sense to do what is constructive. Yes, I know it is easier said than done. But my own life-where I was and where I am now-is proof that we can change, that we are capable of changing our entire outlook on how we perceive this life, this existence, this perceived realm of reality. What I have discovered is that the more I take the "I" out of "My Universe," the easier all of this becomes. The more I realize that it's not all about ME, the more I want to do for others, to be of service to all others. So instead of what I once perceived as an arduous task-helping others-I now see as the joy of my life, a joy that allows me to make a difference in this world, a joy that gives me purpose and direction.

In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, when she asked him what he felt our purpose was in this life, His Holiness the Dalai Lama responded, "To be of service to all others," How wonderful!

I am doing as you suggested, just seeing all sentient beings as "karmic bubbles." They are all like me, wanting to be happy and to be free from suffering.

No good,
No bad,
Just mothers
Deserving of compassion
And kindness from all of us.

Just a flow of words that came to mind after reading your advice on karmic influences. Palms together.