To read this month’s Love in Action Newsletter, click here
Paramhansa Yogananda says that if we analyze the actions of human beings, ultimately, we will find that everything we do, whether we are conscious of it or not, is motivated by a common, universal goal: the avoidance of suffering and the attainment of bliss. Though there are many immediate needs and desires that stimulate our actions in daily life, behind all of them is the fundamental motivation to remove pain and find bliss. Every other human goal is subservient to this one.”
In the past, I did many things that increased my suffering because I was living in ignorance. I did not fully understand that all of my actions had consequences, and therefore I did not take complete responsibility for how I behaved each day.
For example, there were many times when I acted out of anger or criticized others. At other times, I participated in gossip. I was often sarcastic and hurt people with my words.
I did not stop to consider how these behaviors were harming both myself and others, while also creating negative karma. Everything we do has consequences because there is an infallible law at work: the law of cause and effect. When we do good, we reap the benefits of our kindness. Conversely, when we treat others with disrespect, anger, or unkindness, we eventually experience the consequences of those actions.
My challenge was that I did not realize I needed to take responsibility for all of my thoughts, words, and actions without exception. Unfortunately, I had to go through a great deal of suffering before I awakened to this truth and began to understand that I could change my behavior.
However, as my understanding of the law of karma deepened, I began to make significant progress. Today, one of my most important guiding principles is kindness—to treat every person with respect, compassion, and consideration.
Here are some important reminders about taking full responsibility for your thoughts, words, and actions:
- Your actions and choices shape your future.
- Every action produces a result and plants a seed for a future outcome.
- What you do today influences what happens tomorrow.
- You have the power to create positive change through your decisions.
- The steps you take lead you toward your goals and shape your life’s journey.
- Your choices create the life you experience.
As you reflect on these principles, I invite you to examine your own thoughts, words, and actions with honesty and compassion. Consider how the choices you make each day are shaping your future and influencing the lives of those around you.
Rather than dwelling on past mistakes, use them as opportunities for growth and greater awareness. Every moment offers a new chance to choose kindness over anger, understanding over criticism, and responsibility over blame.
The law of cause and effect is always at work, and each positive thought, word, and action plants a seed for a better future. By taking full responsibility for our lives and consciously choosing what we sow, we can create greater peace, happiness, and fulfillment for ourselves and others.
What small change can you make today that will bring more kindness, wisdom, and positive karma into your life?
Gloria Ramirez
Transformative coaching for Self-Mastery
Monthly Spiritual Healing Circle
If you find yourself in need of assistance to overcome a challenging issue in your life, I am here to provide support through a coaching session or a series of Life Coaching sessions. We can connect via phone, Skype, FaceTime, or Zoom. For more information and to schedule a session, please visit my website or simply reply to this email.