Karma

Sometimes I wonder what life would be like if we were handed user manuals. You know, to 'foolproof' things in our lives. I've come to realize that most follow a set of rules that separate us from the animal kingdom, but essentially we really are winging it.  We look to the wisdom of those that preceded us to navigate through situations and make choices. Yet what worked for them doesn't necessarily work for us. The cog in the wheel is that humans are a very precarious bunch which adds an interesting dimension to what is universally known as good and bad.  Things don't fit neatly in a box because there is always something that creates a very unique situation.  Yes, the core qualities of humanity resonates in everyone; some though are muted while others are amplified.

Which brings me to the point of karma. Otherwise known as the universal law of cause and effect ... every thought, word or act carries out an energy that will affect our reality; good or bad. Not something to take lightly eh? I'm going to come at this one from a different angle.  I would like to refer you to the show My Name is Earl. A creative and comical look at a person (Earl) who has made poor choices and mistakes in his life then hits the proverbial rock bottom. It is then that he learns of karma and comes to the realization that his life may end tragically unless he rights all the wrongs from his past. So, he makes a list and sets out to turn his life around. Funny thing is the list takes on a life of its own. As he embarks on this journey he thinks he can deviate and make up his own rules, but quickly realizes that such is not the case.  It's bigger than him and doesn't give him room for negotiation. Now I know it's just a show, but boy does it make you sit up and pay attention. Clearly the list, going out and making amends is a demonstrative way of telling us that we are all collectively the sum of a much bigger whole and we have the power to make changes. We will make mistakes and bad choices which ultimately hurt people and alter our journey. What is, in my opinion, most important, is that we need to be humbled by these experiences.  Learn from the lessons, quietly. Make changes and continue to grow and be the best human beings we can be.

Cause and effect, that's what makes the world go round.

Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.  
(Unknown Author)