KARMA

I believe in KARMA. Karma is defined in Hinduism or Buddhism as an action that is seen as bringing upon oneself inevitable results, good or bad, either in this life or in a reincarnation. There have been countless occasions when I will do something thoughtful or kind because I believe the gesture will be returned. When driving through town, I always stop for pedestrians, even if there are a ton of people and I am in a hurry to get somewhere. This action is not something ridiculous or out of the ordinary, but I worry that if I don’t stop I will have BAD karma. There have been other instances when, for example, a store cashier will hand me back incorrect change, usually a higher amount than I am supposed to receive. While many people would say “thanks” and leave before the clerk noticed, I smile and say “here, I think you gave me a dollar too much.” It’s not that I don’t want that extra dollar – trust me I do – it’s that I feel if I do a good deed I will somehow be repaid later that day. And the repayment is usually much more of a reward than a little extra spare change. I don’t know if my next example is one of the aftermath of good karma or a recipe for bad karma, but I think it applies either way. I bought a Blues and Brews ticket online last year for Friday night only, but when I went to pick up my ticket they accidentally gave me a three-day wristband instead. I didn’t notice until after I had already walked away, and considered turning around and giving it back, but I felt that somehow it was a gift and therefore kept the pass. I don’t think anyone is immune to karma. It’s hard to believe in sometimes when bad things happen to good people, but that can be said to have come from the negative energies of past lifetimes. I believe that you must practice “safe karma” and learn the rules of the game. Karma is similar to Newton’s Laws in physics. Newton claimed that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Karma explains laws of thought and energy, cause and effect. Anyway, there is lots more I can talk about to enhance my belief in karma. And I would love to hear some of your guys’ stories and experiences with karma below!!