KARMA

Karma means action. Physics shows that for every action, there must be an equal and opposite reaction. Karma is energy, which in itself is neither good nor bad; these are just the labels people choose to attach to it. The energy created by an action has to be returned: “As yea sow so shall yea reap.” It cannot be avoided. When you perform an action, it creates a memory, which in turn generates a desire, which leads you to perform another action. For example: You take your first yoga class (action), then you know what happens in a yoga class (memory), and if you enjoyed the class, you decide to go back the following week (desire), and that following week you turn up again with your mat (action). Karma creates memories and desires, which then determine how you live. Actions, memories, and desires are the "Karmic software" that run your life. The subtle energy created by your actions is stored within your memories and desires and is activated—sometimes immediately, but more often at some future time. To use the earlier example, you took the yoga class and then forgot about it until months later when you’re walking through town and notice a yoga studio. You remember your past experience, which triggers the desire to take another class. Whatever your belief, Karma implies that you have created and continue to create your life. Do you have free will? Unfortunately, many people have very little. Many people allow themselves to remain imprisoned in that "Karmic software", conditioned by their memories and desires, performing the same habits over and over and wondering why their lives aren’t taking them anywhere. Many are like the hamster, running on its tread-wheel, thinking it’s getting somewhere while in fact it’s just going round and round! In addition to the Karma created from your own actions, you are subjected to the Karmic influences of your family, religion, race, nationality, and more. Every situation you encounter in life is the result of some Karma. You constantly create Karma from your actions, thoughts, words, from the actions of others under your control, from your attitudes, expectations, and lifestyle. You create Karma from the intended actions you perform consciously and also from actions done unconsciously from ignorance. It is also possible to take on someone else’s Karma, which generally isn’t a good idea, because you have enough of your own. This can happen from stealing another’s belongings, gossiping, or fantasizing. It also happens in intimate relationships, but as long as the relationship is based in love, this is an acceptable part of a bonding exchange. Remember, the relationship itself is the result of Karma, and Vedanta says the purpose of every relationship should be enlightenment. On a final note, "do what you want be done to you". By: Oladipo Ayoola Joel @ayoolajoel