THE ROLE OF KARMA

Everything that happens in our lives is, to some degree, an unfolding of our karma.  But how we resolve our karma varies widely.

Consider the case of three people who must each endure a state of hunger or starvation as a result of past karma. The first develops an illness that prevents him from eating, and in this way, he processes his karma. The second person has always been conscious of the importance of helping others.  Her charitable actions, performed from a place of generosity and kindness, reduce the intensity of her karma. She encounters delays on her way to a business meeting-- a flight is cancelled, she is stuck in a traffic jam-- so she is forced to wait several hours for her next meal. She is hungry, but it's a minor inconvenience rather than a life threatening occurrence. The third individual is on a spiritual path and, as a part of his practice, he is inspired to fast. His inspiration, rooted in his karma, leads him to purify and nullify his past actions through a conscious choice to refrain from eating.  Fasting purifies his body and mind while simultaneously bringing him several steps closer to self-realization.

These are examples of the three ways we can experience the fruits of our karma. The case of the man who becomes seriously ill illustrates the tamasic path. This man has no awareness or choice in his situation. The woman who is charitable, despite some consciousness, still has no control over her situation. This is the rajasic path. But on the sattvic path of spiritual practice, undergoing the fruits of karma is a positive experience through which the individual gains deeper understanding and even acquires positive karma along the way.

There is no doubt that the best way for us to resolve our karma is through spiritual practice. Performing acts of charity-- especially actions that help others in both material and spiritual ways-- is a powerful aspect of that practice.

With this in mind, we are happy to offer opportunities for you to benefit while Dhyanyoga Centers accomplishes its goals of carrying on the flame of Shri Dhyanyogi's and Shri Anandi Ma's love and support of humankind in its journey of life and thereafter, as the soul returns to its ultimate resting place with God.

Please send all donations to: Dhyanyoga Centers P.O. Box 3194 Antioch, CA 94531

For more information on how to donate, please call (925) 779-9660. On-line donating coming soon!