Karma: The Trap

Trapped by Karma

 

Although often the subject of jokes and lightly mentioned as an afterthought, karma is something very serious.

 

We’re bringing this story especially for those of you that have no idea how karma affects your everyday life.

 

Karma What?

 

So, you’re wondering, what is karma and what is this trap thing all about? Let’s start with the word karma.

 

Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning action in thought, word or deed.

 

[With] origins in ancient India, karma is a key concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Taoism.

 

Cultures and religions all around the globe have expressed the philosophy of karma:

 

“As you sow, you will reap.”

Galatians 6:7-9 

 

“Law of cause and effect,”

Isaac Newton, physicist and mathematician.

The law of karma simply states,

 

“That which you give out comes back.”

 

This law is easily observed by watching people argue or fight. One spews poisonous words while the other is scarcely listening; constructing a litany of equally poisonous words to bombard the offender and the offensive conversation they have agreed to engage in. Bad karma we’ve heard of, but did you know there’s such a thing as “good karma?”

 

Most often the word karma, is used in reference to a punishment. But karma, as you will see, transcends the negative and can be a really good thing.

 

Good karma gives you happiness and always feels good. It benefits not only the giver and receiver, but the observer as well.

 

Mindful awareness allows you to be present, in the here and now and aware of your thoughts. Not lost in mindless feelings of fear and negativity, but awake. You are observing your life experience without judgment or ridicule.

 

Here’s an example of the Karma Trap:

 

You’ve begun your day with an attitude of gratitude. Blessing and thanking God (your higher power) for all that you have and all that you are. Everything is going smoothly. You’re feeling good about your day. Without judgment or any negative thought, you give some money to a homeless person.

 

You arrive at work. People have gathered to gossip about an offending co-worker. You join the conversation and before you know it,

 

YOU HAVE FALLEN INTO THE KARMA TRAP.

 

Your old habit of gossiping has negated the good thoughts and deeds of the morning. What now? Do you realize the trap has snapped and you’re neck deep in “bad” karma?

Do you redirect your poisonous words in order to find the good in the person, thereby creating “good karma” which brings positive things, people and experiences to you?

 

Why would anyone intentionally fall into the karma trap?

 

We Were Taught to Judge Others

As children, our well-intended parents and teachers taught us to judge, condemn and ridicule others that were “different.” We didn’t know any better and took it as gospel. They didn’t know any better either, and most likely learned it from their elders.

 

We do what we know.

Timeless Wisdom

 

While this wonderful biblical philosophy is timeless in its wisdom, there is a caveat here, you will treat others in the same way that you think and feel about yourself. Therefore, if you unconsciously despise yourself, you will do the same to others.

 

How you care for yourself is an indication of the value you place on YOU. Similarly,

what you think and how you treat others

reflects your deepest feelings for yourself. When you begin to understand this you will start to treat yourself in ways that are peaceful, loving and health-promoting.

 

“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.”

-Anais Nin

 

How to Avoid the Karma Trap

 

You can negate bad karma and create good karma

just by being mindful. Think consciously. Take responsibility for your actions. Your awareness will bring freedom as you realize you control your life. Blaming, lying, cheating, stealing, or judging put you in the karma trap; that which you have given out to others will come back to you, until you have learned your lesson. Your actions, whether in thought, word or deed must be kind and non-judgmental.

 

How to Stay Out of the Karma Trap

 

Think, be and do good. We are all created to live together in harmony on a peaceful planet. Happiness is our divine blessing.

 

Wake up curious. Most of all wake up grateful. Spend time in silent appreciation.

 

Avoid mean and angry people, they are vexations to your spirit and require additional mental work on your part.

Follow your passion. Serve the world by serving others. Be kind and loving to yourself. Everything begins with you.

 

Forgive the person and their actions, never give in to hate.

Let it go, set it free,

karma will take care of what is meant to be.

Special Thanks:

The 12 Laws of Karma by Lily O’Sullivan

Wikipedia